Kenya Safaris, Tour Kenya Vacation, Travel, Exciting Trips Africa » travel-guide

Kenya Travel Insurance

admin — Wed, 04 Jan 2012 10:00:59 +0000

A holiday overseas is definitely one for full enjoyment and it will be such an embarrassment if things turned out wrong. Being in a different country doesn’t mean that you can’t fall victim to any of the day to day dangers of life. Medical emergencies, theft and loss are likely to affect you in one way while on holiday and in case you are not well covered, the experience will be very terrible as you will have to foot all the costs affiliated to the incidence. Other than looking at travel insurance as an wasted expense, look at it as paying for some peace of mind that will surely allow you to enjoy your holiday without fear on how to handle circumstances if something goes wrong.
If you are not yet convinced, go through the reasons below why it is necessary to have travel insurance.
1) Medical
Statistics of the Australian government indicate that every year the Australian Consulates gets 900 deaths and one thousand two hundred travelers abroad being hospitalized. In south Eastern Asia, hospitals cost close to one thousand dollars a day, so if a traveler has lacks insurance cover, they have to foot the entire bill. The very government statistics indicate about fifty medical evacuations annually. Considering the one hundred dollar evacuation cost of evacuation from USA, you will realize that it is rather vital to be insured.
2) Loss
As you travel items get lost. Baggage is lost at the airport and many wallets stolen during sightseeing in cities that are unfamiliar. Once insured, you have no reason to get worried. Property loss is very stressing although being insured is the clear differentiates between a temporary disturbance and costly disaster that can spoil your entire holiday.
3) Flight Cancellation
Flight cancellation is a very stressing yet common occurrence. You may find your self waiting at the airport for many hours. Worse still is when you have transfers or connecting flights the effect is worse and very costly. Even when not plan you may end up booking more accommodation at the final time or even miss accommodation for more than one night when they are all booked out. Use your travel insurance to protect you against all these problems.
4) Acts of Nature
If in any way you get stuck abroad because of natural catastrophes like hurricanes, chances are high that you can be covered by the insurance company. When traveling to very risky places or those with such belief, it is rather good that you consider this when deciding your policy.
5) Personal Circumstances
Unpredictable situations in life could mean that you have to end your trip earlier or postpone it instead. Sadly no one ever knows when they get sick or lose a relative.travel insurance will certainly help you gain some cost affiliated to the postponed trip.
Despite being a necessary evil, the travel insurance cover is a precaution against unplanned occurrence while abroad. There are several affordable insurance covers, for that reason it wouldn’t be good to travel minus one.

Things to do in Kenya

admin — Wed, 04 Jan 2012 09:59:30 +0000

Top 10 Things To Do In Kenya
Wildlife Safari

Kenya is most popular for its wonderful safaris to the various national parks and reserves across the country. The most prominent of them are the Masai Mara, Lake Nakuru, East Tsavo and Amboseli.
Many travel to see the Big 5 of Africa which are the lions, elephants, rhinos, leopards and buffalos. Although the safaris are a little costly, watching these animals in their immaculate habitat is very rewarding.
Witness the Wildbeest Migration
The Masai Mara game reserve of Kenya together with Tanzania’s Serengeti park share the yearly migration of wildebeests. This spectacular event is among the few natural migrations on land still existing today. Over one million wildebeests plus zebras migrate on land looking for water plus food from May to June basing on the seasonal rains yearly.

Relax on the East African Coast
Africa’s eastern coast lined by the Indian Ocean is among the finest places on earth to pleasure in a beach holiday. Coupled with the beautiful mass of white sand and palms, the serene environment and the hospitable Kenyans, will all give you a wonderful holiday. To explore Kenya’s coast, you can visit Kilifi, Diani, Mombasa or Malindi.
Cultural Travel on the Island of Lamu
Immediately after its coast is Lamu a little cultural island. Over one hundred years now, the island has been occupied by the native Bantu tribes, Portuguese explorers plus Arab traders. The blend of cultures resulted into an interesting history and the Swahili culture. Lamu stands as one of the ancient cities in the country.
Climb Mount Kenya
Although not so popular as the adjacent Mount Kilimanjaro, Mountain Kenya stands as the second highest mountain in Africa and is said to be more challenging to hike. The jaw-dropping scenery is characterized by impressive views of Kenya and a small view of Tanzania’s Mount Kilimanjaro. Majority of the trekkers summit this mountain up to the Lenana Peak.

Hike Through Hell’s Gate
Having grown up in Kenya, one among my favorite activities was traveling to Hell’s Gate National park with my friends. Unique about this park is that cycling and walking safaris are allowed without a guide because there aren’t any lions. The wonderful camping opportunities, canyon gorge and the jagged rock make the park a perfect destination.

River Raft the Tana River
On river Tana, water rafting plus kayaking are become common activities. The river not only prides in the adventurous rapids but also the scenic view of Kenya’s nature. It is very spectacular watching the ecosystem and numerous birds while water rafting in the valley.

Hang Out on Lake Victoria
One of the best cities to visit along Lake Victoria’s shore in Kenya is Kisumu. It offers tranquil sun set views, varieties of fresh fish plus a very calm laid back setting. Also Ndere Island National Park is a haven for bird plus other wildlife ideal for camping and hiking.

Explore Nairobi
I can’t deny that Nairobi doesn’t get the finest reputation. Truthfully there are crimes in the city, however if you take the recommended precautions a visit to Nairobi will always be memorable. Nairobi is the biggest city and serves as the capital of Kenya and offers a variety of historical museums that are open to the public. African tribal exhibitions, the street food, up-to-date shopping malls, local plus international restaurants, local markets and the wildlife park on the fringe of the city are some of the 100 activities awaiting you in Nairobi.

Eat Nyama Choma
Whoever can buy meat in this country enjoys a yummy cuisine of nyama choma regularly. This is Kenya’s edition of grilled meat and is normally prepared by the road side. Normally one will walk to the butcher, order for a chunk of meat to be cut from the carcass and wait for it to roast as they sip some Kenyan Tusker. Goat meat is the commonest although beef plus chicken are joining the trend.

Car Hire in Kenya, Car Rental Services

admin — Tue, 03 Jan 2012 22:23:57 +0000

Car rental in Kenya
Kenya is the most tourist destination in Africa and because of its tourism; it has been the main foreign earner of the country. So many tourists come across the world to see the mother nature of Kenya and among the most visited attractions include the coast, the Great Rift Valley, Lakes and Rivers along with the national parks. Nature walks are also organized by the different tour companies depending on what you want; you are given a chance to see all kinds of plants as well as wildlife as you delight in Kenya’s natural beauty.

Truth be told, nature walks are so adventurous although they may turn out to be dangerous. You need an expert tour guide who is familiar with all the corners of the parks but it’s not a guarantee to have a successful trail. Just in case you can’t handle this kind of tour, you may decide to heir safari car or vehicle for your safety. Kenya has many car hire companies and this is because of the increasing development of the tourism sector. For tourists who travel on a budget friendly tour can use their personal cars up to Kenya and thereafter contact any car hire company in Kenya to provide a relatively affordable vehicle that may take them around the park or to other interesting sites. It’s quite exciting as you will be well assured of protection in case of any problem.

Car hire companies are all over different countries and they offer the best travel services at a cheap price. All you have to do is research on the internet or contact friends that have got a chance to use reliable companies. Vehicles are commonly used for a safari or tour includes four-wheel drive, minibuses along with standard saloons. Booking any of these cars depends on the number of people you are for a trip. The most fascinating thing about car hire companies in Kenya is that they offer the best attention to their visitors and give advanced information concerning booking as well as touring the different parts of the country. They are tourists that may take on long trips than the organized itinerary; such people are recommended to get their vehicles than hiring. This is because it will be costly at the end of the trip compared to the arranged budget of your travel. The only advantage of taking your own vehicle is that it gives a chance to make any stopovers you feel like without anyone hurrying you.

If you are visiting the national parks or game reserves, you are advised to get an experienced tour guide who will provide you will all the necessary information concerning the different parks visited. You may be wondering how much they are paid but truth be told, they are cheap, reliable and aim at satisfying the client’s interests and desires. Keep in mind that vehicles hired have an insurance just in case its stolen, you may only pay a half of the actual price. Majority of the tourists that hire cars pay using valid credit card, it’s quite simple and considerate to all users.

Car hire is so competitive in all tourist destinations although Kenya ranks the highest; this is because of its many tourist attractions that draw several of the visitors. They are so many car hire companies and all provide better services and affordable rates to its clients. If you are a good a driver, you can surely compare rates and get the best car rentals in Kenya that can favor you and according to your budget.

Besides the price, you need a car that is in good condition and one that will give you a chance to catch a glimpse of the amazing view of nature at its best. Some tourists love the big SUVs but I can’t advise you to book this unless if you are a group of people going on a tour. Kenya is well known for its maintained roads to the fact that even small cars can get to the island; it’s the best car to use if you are few and this is because it’s economical and convenient.

If you are a kind who would love to book a vehicle with a car rental in Kenya, this may not work for you because it’s the busiest tourist destination that has tourists all year around. If you don’t book earlier, you may find all the best cars hired and you are left with some old cars that may not give you a wonderful view of nature. If you want to travel during the peak season,endeavour to book your car hire in Kenya early to avoid any inconveniences.

Early booking will save you so many problems and you will get the best rates. Some car hire companies offer discounts to a big group of people thus you are advised to travel in groups to save some money. One thing you must know when booking car rentals online is their terms and services. Remember countries operate differently so you may find some changes that are not in your country. If you can get enough information about Kenya and the best rates for car hire prior to booking.

Kenya Consulate and Embassies

admin — Mon, 02 Jan 2012 13:46:50 +0000

Kenyan Consulate General in Canberra, Australia
Consulate General of Kenya in Australia
Qe Insurance Building
33-35 Ainslie Avenue
Civic Square
Canberra, ACT 2601
Tel.: +61 2 6247 4788
Fax: +61 2 6257 6613

Kenyan Embassy in Brussels, Belgium
Embassy of Kenya in Belgium
Avenue Winston Chrchill 208
1180 Brussels
Tel.: +32 2 3401040
Fax: + 32 2 3401050/62

Kenyan Consulate General in Gaborone, Botswana
Consulate General of Kenya in Botswana
Plot 786 Independence Avenue
Private Bag Box 297
Gaborone
Tel.: + 267 3951408/30
Fax: + 267 3951409

Kenyan Embassy in Bujumbura, Burundi
Embassy of Kenya in Burundi
PTA Bank Building
2nd floor, West Wing
Chaussee du Prince Louise Rwagasore
B.P. 5138
Bujumbura
Tel.: +257-22-258160/2/3/7
Fax: +257 22-258161

Kenyan Consulate General in Ottawa, Canada
Consulate General of Kenya in Canada
415 Laurier Avenue East
Ottawa, Ontario
KIN 6R4
Tel.: 000-1-613-5631773/4/6
Fax: 000-1-613-233-6599

Kenyan Embassy in Beijing, China
Embassy of Kenya in China
4, Xi Liu Street, San Li Tun
Chaoyang District
Beijing
Tel.: + 86 10 65323381, 65322473
Fax: + 86 10 65321770, 65323325

Kenyan Embassy in Kinshasa, Congo
Embassy of Kenya in Congo
4002 Avenue de Louganda
Commune De Gombe
P. O. Box 9667
Kinshasa, Congo
Tel.: + 243 817008203/0/7
Fax: + 243 813016760

Kenyan Embassy in Cairo, Egypt
Embassy of Kenya in Egypt
29 El Kods EL Sharif Street
Mohandesseen, Giza
P. O. Box 362
Tel.: 00-20-2-3453628/3453907
Fax: 00-20-2-3026979

Kenyan Consulate General in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Consulate General of Kenya in Ethiopia
Fikre Mariam Road
High 16 Kebelle 01
P.O. Box 3301
Addis Ababa
Tel.: +251 11 6610033
Fax: + 251 11 6611433

Kenyan Embassy in Paris, France
Embassy of Kenya in France
3 Rue, Freycinet
75116
Paris
Tel.: + 33 1 56622525
Fax: + 33 1 47204441

Kenyan Embassy in Berlin, Germany
Embassy of Kenya in Germany
Markgrafenstr. 63
10969 Berlin
Tel.: + 49 030 25926650
Fax: + 49 030 25926650

Kenyan Consulate General in New Delhi, India
Consulate General of Kenya in India
34, Paschimi Marg, Vasant Vhihar
New Delhi, 110057
India
Tel.: + 91 11 26146537/38/40
Fax: + 91 11 26146550

Kenyan Embassy in Tehran, Iran
Embassy of Kenya in Iran
46 Golshar Street
Golestan Bourlevard, Off African Avenue
P.O. Box 19395/4566
Tehran, Iran
Tel.: + 98 21 22049355/22023234
Fax: + 98 21 22048619/ 22025792

Kenyan Embassy in Dublin, Ireland
Embassy of Kenya in Ireland
11 Elgin Road
Ballsbridge
Dublin
Tel.: +353-1-6136380
Fax: +353-1-6685506

Kenyan Embassy in Tel Aviv, Israel
Embassy of Kenya in Israel
15 Abba Hillel Silver, 3rd Floor
Ramatgan 52136
P.O. Box 3621
Tel Aviv
Tel.: + 972-3 5754633
Fax: + 972 3 5754788

Kenyan Embassy in Rome, Italy
Embassy of Kenya in Italy
Via Archimede 164
00197, Rome, Italy
Tel.: + 39 06 8082717/4/8
Fax: + 39 06 8082707

Kenyan Embassy in Tokyo, Japan
Embassy of Kenya in Japan
3-24-3 Yakumo
Meguro-ku, Tokyo
152-0023
Japan
Tel.: + 81 3 37234006/7
Fax: + 81 3 37234488

Kenyan Embassy in Al-surra, Kuwait
Embassy of Kenya in Kuwait
Surra, Block 6, Street 9, Villa No. 3
P.O. Box 129, Al-surra
45701 Kuwait
Tel.: (965) 5353362, 5353314, 7291729
Fax: (965) 5353316

Kenyan Embassy in Tripoli, Libya
Embassy of Kenya in Libya
Siyehiya Km 7
P.O. Box 74100
Tripoli
Tel.: 000-218-21-4830536
Fax: 000-218-21-4830536

Kenyan Consulate General in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Consulate General of Kenya in Malaysia
8 Jalan Taman u Thant 55000
Kuala Lumpur
Tel.: + 603 21461163
Fax: + 603 21451087

Kenyan Consulate General in Windhoek, Namibia
Consulate General of Kenya in Namibia
134 Robert Mugabe Avenue
P.O. Box 2889
Windhoek, Namibia
Tel.: + 264 61 225900, 61 226836
Fax: + 264 61 221409

Kenyan Embassy in Hague, Netherlands
Embassy of Kenya in Netherlands
21 Nieuwe Parklaan
2597 LA
Hague
Tel.: (+31) 70- 3504215

Kenyan Consulate General in Abuja, Nigeria
Consulate General of Kenya in Nigeria
21 Yedseram Street
Maitama, P.M.B. 5160
Wuse Head Office
Abuja
Tel.: + 234 9 4139 155
Fax: + 234 9 4139 157

Kenyan Consulate General in Islamabad, Pakistan
Consulate General of Kenya in Pakistan
House No. 8a, Embassy Road, Sector F-6/4
P.O. Box 2097
Islamabad, Pakistan
Tel.: + 92 51 2876024/5, 2826951
Fax: +92 51 2876027

Kenyan Embassy in Moscow, Russia
Embassy of Kenya in Russia
Lopukhinsky Pereulok Dom 5
119034, Moscow
Russia
Tel.: + 7 495 6372186, 6374257, 6372535
Fax: + 7 495 6375463

Kenyan Embassy in Kigali, Rwanda
Embassy of Kenya in Rwanda
Chancery Plot No. 1716
Kacyiru Avenue Del L#umuganda
P.O. Box 6159, Kacyiru
Kigali, Rwanda
Tel.: + 250 583332/6
Fax: + 250 510919

Kenyan Embassy in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
Embassy of Kenya in Saudi Arabia
Diplomatic Quarters
P.O. Box 94358
Code 11693
Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
Tel.: + 996 1 4881238, 4882484
Fax: + 966 1 4882629

Kenyan Consulate General in Pretoria, South Africa
Consulate General of Kenya in South Africa
302 Brooks Street
P.O. Box 35954
Menlo Park, 0081
South Africa
Tel.: + 27 12 3622249, 3622250/1
Fax: + 27 12 3622252

Kenyan Embassy in Madrid, Spain
Embassy of Kenya in Spain
Paseo De La Castellana 143 2 APL
28046 Madrid, Spain
Tel.: +34 91 571 09 25
Fax: +34 91 570 56 11

Kenyan Embassy in Khartoum, Sudan
Embassy of Kenya in Sudan
Premises No. 516
Block 1 West Giraif
Khartoum
Tel.: + 249 155772808

Kenyan Embassy in Stockholm, Sweden
Embassy of Kenya in Sweden
Birger Jarlsgatan 37, 2nd Floor
P.O. Box 7694
103 95 Stockholm, Sweden
Tel.: + 46 8 218300/4/9
Fax: + 46 8 209261

Kenyan Consulate General in Dar-es-Salaam, Tanzania
Consulate General of Kenya in Tanzania
P.O. Box 5231
Dar-es-Salaam, Tanzania
Tel.: + 255 22 2668285/6
Fax: + 255 22 2668213

Kenyan Embassy in Bangkok, Thailand
Embassy of Kenya in Thailand
62 So1 5 Thong
Lor, Sukhumrit 55 Road
Klongtan, Wattana
Bangkok 10110
Thailand
Tel.: 66 27125721, 23910906/7
Fax: 66 21725720

Kenyan Consulate General in Kampala, Uganda
Consulate General of Kenya in Uganda
Plot No. 41
Nakasero Road
P.O. Box 5220
Kampala, Uganda
Tel.: 006-41-258232/5/6
Fax: 006 41 258239

Kenyan Consulate General in London, United Kingdom
Consulate General of Kenya in United Kingdom
45 Portland Place
London W1B IAS
UK
Tel.: + 44 020 76362371
Fax: + 44 02073236717

Kenyan Embassy in Washington, United States of America
Embassy of Kenya in United States of America
2249, R. Street N.W.
Washington D.C. 20008
USA
Tel.: 000-1-202-3876101
Fax: 000-1-202-4623829

Kenyan Consulate General in Los Angeles, United States of America
Consulate General of Kenya in United States of America
Park Mile Plaza
4801 Willshire Boulevard
Mezzaine Floor
CA 90010
USA
Tel.: 000-1-323-9392408
Fax: 1-323-939-2412

Kenyan Consulate General in Lusaka, Zambia
Consulate General of Kenya in Zambia
5207 United Nations Avenue
P.O. Box 50298
Lusaka, Zambia
Tel.: + 260 1 250722/42/51
Fax: + 260 1 253829

Kenyan Consulate General in Harare, Zimbabwe
Consulate General of Kenya in Zimbabwe
95 Park Lane
P.O. Box 4069
Harare Zimbabwe
Tel.: + 263 4 704820, 704833, 704937, 704637
Fax: + 263 4 723042

Kenya Travel Guide, When to Visit , Visa, Kenya Travel Package, What To Pack

admin — Wed, 07 Dec 2011 15:24:11 +0000

It is believed that Kenya is generally a cold country characterized by hot sunshine and a combination of the high altitudes and the beautiful tropical sun which make the country have a very exceptional and uneven climate. For that reason as you visit the country have all this in mind.
The climate plus the temperatures drastically change from one region to another including throughout the day. Therefore all travelers should visit the country well prepared for hot, dusty, cold and wet weather conditions. So as you pack for your trip, carefully think before doing so.
The final packing should depend on the activities you hope to participate in while on your trip. You are hoping to broadly travel through the country, ensure that you have carried with you adequate and appropriate luggage. The suitcases plus the bags you carry along should be able to handle extensive handling in addition to dusty circumstances. The hard suitcases are very perfect only that they occupy a lot of space.
If you are to travel either by domestic or chartered flights within the country, keep in mind the existing luggage limitations especially if you are to use a small aircraft. Endeavor to check with your tour or safari operator or with the charter airline in advance. If you are hoping to use public transport/ trekkers while traveling, you are advised to opt for a backpack. Use a strong well-built pack having lockable zips, catches and orthopedic supports. Use small day packs to carry cameras, basic daily items and travel documents.
Special considerations should also be made when deciding on which items to carry with you. It is recommended that you bring with you comfortable, lightweight casual clothing as they are the most ideal. For game viewing while walking or walking safaris, choose neutral colored clothes and very much do away with white, colorfully patterned or bright clothing. Research has proved that most of the wild animals in Africa can see and recognize bright blue above all other colors.
If you plan to involve in any walking activities, you are also advised to bring with you very durable footwear. For serious trekkers or hikers, carry with you a pair of strong hiking boots. Do not forget that the Equatorial or tropical sunshine is strong and also burns very fast. To properly protect oneself against the sun, use widely edged hats as they are very suitable as compared to the stylish baseball caps.
In some regions particularly coastal areas, it is so considered to be unsuitable for women and in some instances men to wear mini-sleeved shirts or shorts. For that reason it is very wise that you seek local advice before your visit if possible. If you plan to stay in expensive hotels, then don’t forget to carry along a number of formal clothing. And most of all never forget to bring your toiletries although the basically used toiletries are prevalent throughout the country.

Where need be, bring along all your personal prescribed drugs and do not forget the generic names of the drug just in case you need to replace locally. If you wear glasses, if possible, bring with you an extra pair. Individuals planning to enjoy long walk or take camping safaris, carry an indispensable medical kitin addition to a torch or flash light plus an army knife
For small electrical gadgets like cameras and phones, carry with you the battery charger or where possible carry along the converter plug. Kenya’s electricity supply is 50 Hz, 220 Volt and a square pin of 13amp plug.
For perfect viewing a pair of good quality binoculars is vital. Hikers can always hire climbing equipment, gears and strong ropes while in Kenya. Although there is an allowance for those who wish to carry their own equipment.
There is good quality and properly functioning equipment to take care of divers. Although the country also has good working equipment for hire, while individuals with prescribed masks should always bring them along, in addition to all relevant diving certifications and log documents. The travel documents should be genuine and well kept among them should be tickets, Vaccination Certificates, Passports and their rightful visa entries, Travel Insurance documents and tickets.
Make additional photocopies of Air ticket, traveler’s cheque number plus Passport and do not forget to have them packed separately. Take a number of copies on you and leave some back at home. Carry some dollars on you, credit cards and traveler’s cheques.

Kenya Visa, How to Get a Visa, Cost , Application form online,Immigration

admin — Wed, 07 Dec 2011 13:23:15 +0000

Most countries’ enfranchised members of the state are demanded to acquire a Visa, which is a bout 50 US dollars.
The Visa can be got directly on entry. However, if a Kenyan diplomatic mission exists in your country, it is recommendable to get the Kenya Visa prior to the coming. The visa can be got directly on entry. However, if a Kenyan diplomatic mission exists in your country, it is recommendable to get the Visa prior to the coming. The visa is ratified for 90 days.

Make sure that your passport is ratified for at least a minimum of six months, beginning with the date of entry. You must also be in position to present a farther on or return ticket. Or else, you may be requested to buy one or to make a refundable deposit.

Extensions of Visas can be applied for to the Principle Immigration Officer at Nyayo House In Nairobi or the Immigration office in Mombasa. If your Visa is ratified, there is no need to request for re-entry passes if you travel to either Uganda or Tanzania.

The airport taxes are now part in your flight ticket, thus, upon leaving the country, you will not have to pay like it was before.