Trip Planning
The TakeYourBackpack guidebooks are your all-in-one travel companion, featuring the best cities, national parks, hikes, beaches, and unique sites, along with essential tips on when to go, how to get around, exchanging money, and even local phrases to get you started — everything you need for a smooth, unforgettable backpacking adventure.
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Personal tip: I normally search on good rating for atmosphere (for meeting people) and location (for easy exploring). Cleanliness as a bonus.
Travel Essentials
Yellow fever vaccination is recommended for travelers to Kenya. Consider hepatitis A and B, typhoid, cholera, and rabies vaccinations depending on your activities and travel plans. Ensure routine vaccines like MMR, DPT, and influenza are up to date. Consult a healthcare provider for personalized advice.
World Health Organization and
CDC websites provide updated info.
vaccination requirementsWhen I first started traveling, I often spent part of my first day in a new country hunting for a local SIM card. While this can still be slightly cheaper, it also takes time and planning.
These days, it's much simpler to install an eSIM before leaving home. Once you arrive in Kenya, you can activate it immediately and have mobile data from the moment you land — which is especially useful for ordering transport or navigating away from busy airports.
There are many providers nowadays, and price differences are usually small. I personally go with Airalo, as it offers excellent network coverage throughout the country and strong global coverage, so you can manage multiple countries from a single app.
Get your e-sim for KenyaCulture & Customs
Respect local customs by dressing modestly, particularly in rural areas. Men typically wear long pants and women should avoid short skirts or revealing tops. When greeting, a handshake is common, and it’s polite to ask about someone’s well-being before jumping into a conversation.
Always use your right hand for eating and when handing over money or gifts. Bargaining is expected in markets, but do it respectfully. Homosexuality is illegal in Kenya, so LGBTQ+ travelers should exercise caution and discretion. Women might encounter unwanted attention; traveling in groups and dressing conservatively can minimize this. Avoid discussing politics and tribal topics to steer clear of sensitive conversations.
Trying traditional food is always a great way to experience the culture. Here are some must-try dishes for Kenya.
- Ugali: This is a staple in Kenyan cuisine, made from maize flour and water. It’s a bit like polenta and is typically served as a side dish with meat or vegetable stews. Ugali is essential for understanding Kenyan dining as it’s a daily meal and a symbol of sustenance.
- Nyama Choma: Translating to ”grilled meat,” this dish is a favorite, especially with goat or beef. It’s often enjoyed in social settings, making it a great way to mingle with locals and soak in the communal vibe. Pair it with some kachumbari (a fresh tomato and onion salad) for the full experience.
- Sukuma Wiki: This translates to ”push the week” and is a simple yet nutritious dish made from collard greens. It’s a go-to side dish that complements many main courses and is loved for its affordability and nutritional value.
- Chapati: A flatbread that came from the Indian influence in Kenya, it’s now a beloved part of the local cuisine. You’ll find it served with almost anything, from stews to breakfast beans. Its versatility makes it a household favorite.
- Githeri: A traditional dish from the Kikuyu community, made from boiled corn and beans. It’s often spiced up with vegetables and is not only filling but also a representation of traditional Kenyan farming practices.
It’s not recommended for tourists to drink tap water in Kenya, as it may cause stomach issues. Locals might drink it, but their systems are more accustomed to it. Stick to bottled or filtered water to be safe.
The main language in Kenya is
Swahili. Backpacking is way more rewarding if you know a bit of the local language, so I'd suggest brushing up on the basics just in case your Swahili skills have become a bit rusty.
Want to understand locals better?The complete Travel Guide for Kenya includes 52 essential words and phrases — greetings, thank-yous, ordering food, transport, numbers, and common local expressions you'll actually hear.
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English is widely spoken and serves as one of the official languages alongside Swahili. It is the primary language of instruction in schools and is commonly used in government, business, and media. Most urban areas, particularly cities like Nairobi and Mombasa, have a high proficiency in English, with many Kenyans being bilingual or multilingual.
In rural areas, while English is still understood, proficiency may vary. Many locals may communicate primarily in Swahili or indigenous languages, but basic English is often sufficient for travelers. Kenyans generally have a positive attitude toward English speakers, and you will find that most people in the hospitality industry, such as hotels and tour operators, are fluent in English.
Overall, travelers should feel comfortable navigating Kenya with English, as it is commonly spoken in most contexts, making communication relatively easy. However, learning a few basic Swahili phrases can enhance your experience and interactions with locals.
Money & Payments
The local currency of Kenya is KES (KSh).
ATMs: They’re widely available in cities like Nairobi and Mombasa, but not so much in rural areas. Stick with ATMs attached to banks for added security. Always have a backup plan in case machines are out of service or out of cash.
Cash: Carry some Kenyan Shillings for small purchases, especially in rural zones. Break bigger bills when you have the chance; small change is often needed for local transport and market stalls.
Currency: Bring some USD or Euros as a backup. Dollars are particularly useful as they’re widely accepted and easy to exchange. Just make sure they’re in good condition; torn or marked bills might be rejected.
Card Acceptance: Larger hotels and some restaurants in the cities will take cards, but don’t rely on this everywhere. Visa and MasterCard are your best bets, but always check if there’s a surcharge before swiping.
Exchanging Money: Use authorized forex bureaus found in cities for competitive rates. Avoid exchanging at the airport unless it’s an emergency, as rates are usually less favorable. Remember, having some local currency before you hit the road is always smart.
Tipping in Kenya isn’t mandatory but is appreciated, especially in touristy areas. In restaurants, leaving a tip of 5-10% of the bill is common, while hotel staff and guides usually expect small tips for good service. Carry some cash in Kenyan shillings for tipping, as it’s the most convenient currency.
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Best Backpacking
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Over the years, I've learned the importance of packing minimally. It's so much easier to jump on the back of a truck or squeeze yourself into the last spot of a minibus without that supersized backpack. If you're headed to a warm destination, leave your winter jacket at home; for colder regions, opt for thin thermal underlayers. Instead of packing your entire wardrobe, bring just three sets of clothes, as laundry facilities are available everywhere.
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Hi, I’m Johan (Netherlands 🇳🇱), the creator of TakeYourBackpack. Over the past decade, I’ve backpacked through 80+ countries across six continents, gaining extensive experience with independent travel, long-term trips, and overland routes.