What to Prepare When Travelling to Kenya

Kenya Travel Highlights and Tips

Kenya travel highlights

Kenya, a country located in East Africa, is known for its diverse landscapes, wildlife, and vibrant culture. Here are some of the top highlights of traveling to Kenya:

Kenya Travel Highlights and Tips
Kenya Travel Highlights and Tips
  1. Kenya’s incredible wildlife, including the famous Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino), is well-known. Visitors can go on safari drives through national parks such as the Maasai Mara, Amboseli, and Tsavo.
  2. Beaches: Kenya has some beautiful beaches along its coast, including Diani Beach and Watamu Beach. Visitors can enjoy water activities such as snorkeling, diving, and swimming.
  3. The Maasai people, who are an indigenous tribe in Kenya, actively maintain their distinctive dress, traditional music, and dance as part of their culture. Visitors can visit Maasai villages to learn more about their way of life.
  4. Mount Kenya: Mount Kenya is the highest mountain in Kenya and the second-highest peak in Africa. Visitors can go on guided hikes to explore the mountain’s scenic trails and take in breathtaking views.
  5. Lake Victoria: Lake Victoria is the largest lake in Africa and the second-largest freshwater lake in the world. Visitors can take boat tours to explore its islands and fishing villages.
  6. Nairobi: Kenya’s capital city, Nairobi, is a bustling metropolis with a vibrant culture and history. Visitors can explore its museums, markets, and restaurants.
  7. Giraffe Centre: The Giraffe Centre in Nairobi is a conservation center for the endangered Rothschild’s giraffe. Visitors can interact with the giraffes and learn about conservation efforts.
  8. Hot Air Balloon Safaris: Visitors can experience the Maasai Mara from a different perspective by taking a hot air balloon ride over the savannah.
  9. The unique Swahili architecture and culture of Lamu Island have earned it the status of a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visitors can explore its narrow streets, mosques, and markets.
  10. Bird Watching: Kenya is a birdwatcher’s paradise with over 1,100 species of birds. Visitors can go on bird watching safaris in national parks and reserves such as Lake Nakuru and Samburu.

Kenya Travel Tips

  1. Visa and Passport: You will need a valid passport and a visa to enter Kenya. You can obtain a visa upon arrival at the airport or apply for one beforehand online. Make sure your passport has at least six months of validity remaining.
  2. Health: Make sure to check with your doctor about any vaccinations you may need before traveling to Kenya. Malaria is also prevalent in many areas, so consider taking prophylaxis medication and using mosquito repellent.
  3. Safety: Kenya is generally safe for tourists, but it’s always a good idea to take precautions like avoiding unlit and deserted areas at night, and keeping an eye on your belongings in crowded areas.
  4. Transportation: Matatus (minibuses) are the most common mode of public transportation in Kenya, but they can be overcrowded and unsafe. Taxis are widely available in major cities, and you can also hire a driver or take a private car. Domestic flights are also a popular option for getting around Kenya.
  5. Accommodation: Kenya has a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury lodges to budget hostels. When booking accommodation, make sure to research the area and read reviews before booking.
  6. Food and Drink: Kenyan cuisine is diverse and flavorful, with influences from Indian, Middle Eastern, and African cuisine. Some popular dishes include ugali (a cornmeal porridge), samosas, and nyama choma (grilled meat). Make sure to drink bottled water and avoid street food that may not be properly cooked or stored.
  7. Wildlife: Kenya is known for its wildlife, and going on a safari is a popular activity for tourists. When viewing wildlife, always listen to your guide and keep a safe distance from animals.
  8. Cultural Etiquette: Kenyan culture is diverse and rich, with many different tribes and languages. When visiting local communities, it’s important to respect their customs and traditions. Dress modestly, ask permission before taking photos, and learn a few words in Swahili to show your respect.

Equity Bank Agent Cash Withdrawal Charges 2023

Equity Bank Agent Bank Withdrawal charges 2023

Services Offered by Equity Bank Agents

Equity Bank Agent cash withdrawal charges 2023 has more than 39,464 agents nationwide. The banking agency model was adopted to extend banking services to the unbanked population. Through this model, customers can access banking services within their communities or neighborhoods. This is convenient and saves time.

  • Cash deposits.
  • Cash withdrawals.
  • Bill payments ( KPLC, DSTV, Water etc)
  • Equitel Registration.
  • Balance inquiries.
  • Money Transfer.
  • Third-Party Payments.
  • Issuing and top-up of prepaid card.
  • Equitel Airtime Top-up.
  • Social payment.
  • Payment of goods and services.
  • Rent payments.
  • School fees payments.
  • Mini statement requests.
  • Account opening origination.
Equity Bank Agent Bank Withdrawal charges 2023

Equity Bank Agent Cash Withdrawal Charges 2023

Range Charges
100 – 2,500 30
2,501 – 5,000 54
5,001 – 10,000 90
10,001- 20,000 174
20,001- 35,000 204
35,001 – 50,000 234
50,001 – 100,000 270

Read Also: Transaction charges for sending money from NCBA to Mpesa, Airtel money in 2023

Transaction Charges For Sending Money From NCBA to Mpesa, Airtel money in 2023

NCBA to M-PESA, Airtel Money Charges Effective 2023

About

The Central Bank of Kenya has introduced that it will begin charging charges for bank-to-cellular cash transfers on January 1, 2023.

The provider of loose transfers to cellular cash wallets will not be to be had as of the brand new 12 months and could now be situation to a transactional fee, with unique charges for NCBA Bank being provided.

NCBA to M-PESA, Airtel Money Charges Effective 2023

Charges

Tariffs (KES) To M-PESA in KES To Airtel Money in KES
1-100 0 0
101-500 10 11
501-1000 12 18
1001-1500 14 20
1501-2500 23 25
2501-3500 33 35
3501-5000 43 45
5001-7500 55 55
7501-20,000 65 65
20,001-150,500 67 65

Read Also: Family bank to Airtel money Mpesa withdrawal charges effective 2023.

Family Bank to Airtel Money, M-PESA Withdrawal Charges Effective 2023

family bank to Mpesa, Airtel money charges photo

About

Central Bank of Kenya has just announced that it will begin charging bank-to-mobile transfers from January 1, 2023. This is because the financial industry in Kenya has applied for the fees to be reinstated.

family bank to Mpesa, Airtel money withdrawal charges photo

They were removed during the pandemic. Until now, Kenyans have been able to use this service for free for almost three years, but that is coming to an end. From now on, every time you want to transfer money to a mobile wallet, you need to have to pay a fee. Family Bank also charges specific fees.

family bank to Mpesa, Airtel money Withdrawal charges photo

Charges

Transaction range in KES M-PESA Charge in KES Airtel Money charge in KES
1-100 0 0
101-500 10 11
501-1000 12 13
1001-1500 14 20
1501-2500 23 25
2501-3500 33 35
3501-5000 43 45
5001-7500 55 55
7501-10,000 55 55
10,001-15,000 65 65
15,001-20,000 65 65
20,001-150,000 67 65

Meru National Park-Attractions and location

Meru National Park

Meru National Park is a national park located in the Eastern part of Kenya, in the Meru County. The park covers an area of about 870 square kilometers and is situated about 350 km from Nairobi, the capital city of Kenya. The park is named after the Meru people, who are the local inhabitants of the area.

Meru National Park

The park is also known for its scenic landscapes,. These include rivers, waterfalls, and forests. One of the main attractions in the park is the Tana River, which flows through the park .The river offers visitors the opportunity to engage in activities such as fishing and white-water rafting.

Wild life

Meru National Park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including elephants, lions, leopards, cheetahs, giraffes, buffaloes, zebras, and more. The park also boasts over 400 species of birds, making it a popular destination for birdwatching.

Attractions

Attractions for visitors to enjoy. Here are some of the main attractions in the park:

  • Wildlife: Meru National Park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including elephants, lions, leopards, cheetahs, giraffes, buffaloes, zebras, and more. The park is also home to over 400 species of birds, making it a popular destination for birdwatching.
  • Rivers and waterfalls: The park is traversed by several rivers, including the Tana River, which offers visitors the opportunity to engage in activities such as fishing and white-water rafting. The park also boasts several waterfalls, including the spectacular Elsa’s Kopje waterfall.
  • Scenic landscapes: Meru National Park has a variety of scenic landscapes, including savannah grasslands, riverine forests, and rocky outcrops.
  • Cultural experiences: Visitors to the park can also enjoy cultural visits to the nearby villages, where they can learn about the customs and traditions of the local Meru people.
  • Game drives: Game drives are a popular activity in the park, offering visitors the opportunity to see wildlife up close and in their natural habitat.
  • Guided walks: Guided walks are another way to explore the park and its wildlife, with experienced guides leading visitors on walks through the park’s forests and savannahs.
  • Accommodation options: Meru National Park offers a range of accommodation options, including camping sites, lodges, and luxury tented camps, providing visitors with a comfortable place to rest after a day of exploring the park.

Accommodation near Meru National Park

Here are some of the accommodation options available:

  1. Elsa’s Kopje: This is a luxury safari lodge located on Mughwango Hill, offering stunning views of the park. The lodge has 9 cottages, a swimming pool, and a spa. Rates start at around $450 per person per night.
  2. Rhino River Camp: This is a tented camp located on the banks of the Kindani River. The camp has 7 tents and offers game drives, guided walks, and cultural visits. Rates start at around $350 per person per night.
  3. Ikweta Safari Camp: This is a mid-range tented camp located on the border of the park. The camp has 8 tents, a swimming pool, and offers game drives and guided walks. Rates start at around $180 per person per night.
  4. Leopard Rock Lodge: This is a luxury lodge located on the slopes of Mughwango Hill. The lodge has 15 rooms, a swimming pool, and offers game drives, guided walks, and cultural visits. Rates start at around $350 per person per night.
  5. Murera Springs Eco Lodge: This is a budget lodge located just outside the park. The lodge has 8 rooms, a swimming pool, and offers game drives and guided walks. Rates start at around $50 per person per night.

Park Charges

In terms of park charges,

The fees for non-residents are $52 per adult per day and $26 per child per day. For residents, the fees are KSH 1030 per adult per day and KSH 515 per child per day.

These fees cover park entry, game drives, and guided walks. Fishing and white-water rafting activities are charged separately.

Best Time to Visit Meru National Park

The long, cool, and dry season from July to October is generally considered the best time to visit Meru National Park. With little or no new rainfall, seasonal waterholes are evaporating and vegetation is sparse.

 How to get there

Here are some of the ways to get to the park:

By road: The most common way to get to Meru National Park is by road. There are several options for driving to the park, including private cars, taxis, or rental cars. The journey from Nairobi takes around 5-6 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.

By air: There are several airstrips near the park, including the Mulika, Maua, and Meru airstrips. Also You can take a scheduled flight from Wilson Airport in Nairobi to one of these airstrips, and then take a taxi or shuttle to the park.

By train: The nearest railway station to Meru National Park is in Nanyuki, about 120 kilometers away. From there, you can take a taxi or bus to the park.