Frequently Asked Questions

On December 12th, 2023, Kenya removed the need for international travellers to obtain a visa, replacing it with an online Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) starting January 1, 2024. The ETA costs $30 (replacing the old $51 visa fee) and can be applied for at www.etakenya.go.ke. The application is straightforward—you'll need your passport (valid for at least 6 months), a selfie or passport photo, travel details, accommodation confirmation, and airline booking. All foreign visitors (except EAC member state citizens) must obtain an ETA. Applications must be submitted through the official government website only. Processing typically takes 3 working days. After approval, print the attached PDF or save it in the mobile app—this document serves as your travel authorization and must be presented at departure and arrival.

Before traveling to Kenya, consult a Travel Vaccination Clinic or your local doctor to discuss your plans. While there's no malaria at Ololo or in Nairobi, it is present in other safari areas, so ask your doctor about suitable prophylactics. There is a risk of Yellow Fever in Kenya, and vaccination is required if you're arriving from or transiting through high-risk countries. Carry a Yellow Fever card, especially if continuing to countries without Yellow Fever risk. Standard travel vaccinations (Hepatitis A & B, Typhoid, Tetanus) are also recommended.

Yes, it is a condition of booking that you carry comprehensive travel and medical insurance covering yourself and any dependents for the duration of your trip. Compulsory coverage should include: • Emergency evacuation expenses • Medical expenses • Repatriation expenses Recommended coverage: • Cancellation or curtailment of trip • Damage/theft/loss of personal luggage, money and goods We can recommend insurance providers if needed.

Kenya offers excellent safari opportunities year-round, though the experience varies by season. Dry seasons (January-March and June-October) are ideal for wildlife viewing as animals gather around water sources and vegetation is less dense. July-October is peak season for the Great Migration in the Masai Mara, when millions of wildebeest and zebra cross from Tanzania. The long rains are from April to June, and the short rains are in October and November. Even during rainy seasons, mornings are often clear, and the landscape is lush and beautiful.

On domestic safari flights, luggage is limited to one soft bag per person with a maximum weight of 15kg (33lbs). Hard-sided suitcases are not permitted on most bush flights. If you have extra luggage, you're welcome to store bags at Ololo Lodge or at the airport (storage facilities available), and pick them up on return. For keen photographers carrying extra equipment, there's the option to purchase a 'freight seat'. Please reach out if this interests you.

Climate: Kenya has warm days and cool mornings/evenings year-round. Higher altitudes are moderate, while the coast is humid and tropical. Dress Code: Neutral safari colors (green, khaki, beige) are ideal. Bring a warm jacket for cooler evenings and early morning game drives. Don't forget a hat and sunglasses! Essentials: Sunscreen, insect repellent, any personal medications, camera with extra batteries/memory cards, binoculars, and a reusable water bottle. Power: Kenya uses 220/230V with Type G (3-prong) sockets. Bring an adapter/converter combo. Most camps provide laundry services, so you can pack light!

The currency in Kenya is the Kenya Shilling (KSh). You can convert money at banks, Forex Bureaus, or ATMs found in major airports and towns. VISA and Mastercard are widely accepted; American Express is not. It's advisable to carry cash for smaller shops and tipping. IMPORTANT: When bringing foreign currency, ensure it's in new format with no damage. Only US Dollars from 2009 onwards are accepted.

Tipping is not mandatory but is always appreciated if you're satisfied with the service. Tips can be given in Kenya Shillings or US Dollars. Recommended guidelines: • Safari guide: $15-20 USD per day • General tip box (for lodge staff): $20-25 USD per day Tips can be given in cash at the end of your stay, or some lodges allow you to add tips to your final bill by card.

A 30% deposit is typically required to secure your booking, with the balance due 90 days before your arrival date. For bookings made within 90 days of arrival, full payment may be required at time of booking. We accept major credit cards (Visa, Mastercard) and bank transfers. Specific payment terms will be clearly communicated during the booking process.

Most safari properties operate on a full-board basis, including breakfast, lunch, dinner, and some drinks. Many also offer afternoon tea and snacks between game drives. Premium drinks (champagne, premium wines, etc.) may incur additional charges at some properties. Specific meal plans and inclusions are detailed on each property page. Most lodges can accommodate dietary requirements (vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, etc.) with advance notice.

Many properties offer WiFi in common areas, though connectivity can be limited in remote locations. Some camps intentionally limit WiFi to encourage guests to disconnect and immerse themselves in nature. We recommend embracing the digital detox—it's part of the safari experience! However, if staying connected is important for your trip, let us know and we can recommend properties with stronger connectivity.

Many properties welcome families with children, though age restrictions may apply at certain camps due to safety considerations around wildlife. Some lodges have minimum age requirements (often 6-12 years), while others are specifically designed for families with dedicated children's programs, child-friendly menus, and family accommodation. Contact us for family-specific recommendations based on your children's ages.

Kenya is home to the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, rhino) plus countless other species including cheetah, giraffe, zebra, wildebeest, hippo, crocodile, and over 1,000 bird species. Wildlife sightings vary by location and season: • Masai Mara: Famous for big cats and the Great Migration • Amboseli: Known for large elephant herds with Mt. Kilimanjaro backdrop • Samburu: Home to unique species like Grevy's zebra and gerenuk • Laikipia: Excellent for endangered species including wild dogs

Most properties include two daily game drives (morning and afternoon) led by expert naturalist guides. These are typically conducted in open-sided 4x4 vehicles for optimal wildlife viewing and photography. Many properties also offer additional activities such as: • Bush walks with armed guides • Night drives to see nocturnal wildlife • Cultural visits to local communities • Hot air balloon safaris (additional cost) • Horseback or camel safaris Specific inclusions are listed on each property page.

Yes, Kenya's safari industry maintains high safety standards. All game drives are conducted by experienced, trained guides who understand animal behavior. Safari vehicles are designed for safe wildlife viewing, and guides maintain appropriate distances from animals. Properties have comprehensive safety protocols and emergency procedures in place. We work only with reputable, safety-conscious partners who prioritize guest welfare. That said, wildlife is unpredictable, so it's important to always follow your guide's instructions.