Explore

Kenya is not the kind of destination that travelers usually choose to discover on their own. The country has vast natural areas full of wild animals and quality tourism that is quite expensive, especially when it involves entrances to parks and reserves, safaris and stays in lodges and resorts. Most visitors leave their countries already with “all or almost included” programs that group flights, transfers, stays and safaris in these lodges. The cost of living, outside the lodges and resorts, parks and reserves, are quite affordable.

INTERNAL FLIGHTS

the national company Kenya Airways ensures daily connections from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport at least to Mombasa, Malindi, Lamu and Kisumu. Alternatively, the low-cost Fly540 flies regularly to Mombasa, Malindi, Lamu, Kisumu and Masai Mara. Another airline, the air kenya, flies from Wilson Airport in Nairobi to Mombasa, Malindi, Lamu, Amboseli, Masai Mara, Meru, Nanyuki and Samburu. 

CAR RENTAL

If you prefer a more adventurous alternative, rent a car in Nairobi – preferably 4WD and a sturdy jeep or SUV – especially during the rainy season – and set out to explore. Keep in mind, however, that Nairobi's traffic is permanently stymied and outside Nairobi the roads offer few conditions of safety. Also, after arriving at the parks and reservations, it will always be better to find a way to take the safaris guided and safely. The ideal, in this case, is to book tours operated by companies based in Nairobi.

A rental car can cost from €140 per week for an economy vehicle for 5 people. Add a few more euros for insurance which, although not mandatory, is highly recommended. 

TRUCK

Kenya has a network of long-distance buses that run along the country's main roads and charge around €1,50 for each hour of travel. Expect neither comfort nor luxury, far from it. The official speed limit is 80 km/h but the roads are of poor quality. They can require frequent overtaking and be bumpy and/or dusty. As a rule, buses have night club decorations and usually show movies or music at high volume. If you choose a long-haul trip, try to find companies with the most comfortable vehicles.  

OTHER

Travel from matatu (old mini-buses from 12 to 35 seats) and other forms of local transport are possible and at less than €1 per km on main routes and cities, but the connections and complementary solutions will consume a large part of the time and money available to discover the country.