Africa · Eastern Africa

Kenya

Republic of Kenya

Flag of Kenya
Local Time
--:--:--
UTC+03:00
🏛️ Capital
Nairobi
👥 Population
53,330,978
📐 Area
580,367 km²
💱 Currency
Kenyan shilling (Sh)
🗣️ Languages
English, Swahili
📞 Calling Code
+254
🕐 Time Zones
UTC+03:00
🌐 Region
Africa / Eastern Africa

About Kenya

Kenya is one of Africa's most iconic destinations, a land where sweeping savannahs stretch to the horizon and the air hums with the drama of the natural world. From the moment you arrive, the energy is palpable — the scent of red earth, the distant rumble of thunder over Rift Valley escarpments, and the sight of Maasai herders silhouetted against a burning sunset. This is a country that awakens every sense and leaves a permanent mark on anyone who visits.

You will find yourself drawn between extremes in Kenya. In the north, arid deserts give way to shimmering Turkana shores. In the south, the Masai Mara hosts one of nature's greatest spectacles — the Great Migration, when over a million wildebeest thunder across the plains in a breathtaking seasonal journey. To the east, white-sand beaches fringe the Indian Ocean, where ancient Swahili port towns whisper of centuries of trade and cultural exchange.

Nairobi, the capital, is a vibrant metropolis where glass towers stand alongside bustling street markets and a surprising array of world-class restaurants. Whether you come for a classic safari, a coastal retreat, a mountain climb on the slopes of Mount Kenya, or an immersion in Maasai culture, Kenya rewards every kind of traveller with encounters that feel genuinely extraordinary. This is a destination that earns its place on every serious traveller's bucket list.

History & Background

Kenya's history stretches back millions of years — the Rift Valley is widely regarded as the cradle of humanity, and fossil discoveries at sites like Turkana have reshaped our understanding of human evolution. Arab traders established coastal settlements over a thousand years ago, and the Swahili civilisation that emerged from these interactions produced magnificent stone towns like Lamu and Mombasa that still stand today. Portuguese explorers arrived in the 15th century, followed by the Omani Sultanate, which controlled much of the coast for centuries.

British colonial rule began in earnest in the late 19th century with the construction of the Uganda Railway. The colonial period was marked by land dispossession and racial inequality, culminating in the Mau Mau Uprising of the 1950s — a fierce resistance movement that helped accelerate Kenya's path to independence. Kenya gained independence on 12 December 1963, with Jomo Kenyatta becoming the first Prime Minister and later President. The post-independence era brought economic development alongside political challenges, and today Kenya stands as one of East Africa's most dynamic economies.

Culture & People

Kenya is home to more than 40 distinct ethnic groups, each with their own language, traditions, and artistic heritage. The Maasai are perhaps the most internationally recognised, known for their striking red robes, beaded jewellery, and deep connection to cattle herding and ancestral land. The Kikuyu, Luo, Kalenjin, and Luhya communities each contribute distinct musical styles, culinary practices, and ceremonial customs that enrich the country's cultural tapestry.

Swahili culture along the coast reflects centuries of interaction between Bantu-speaking Africans, Arab traders, and Indian merchants, producing a unique blend of architecture, cuisine, and language. Harambee — a Swahili word meaning "pulling together" — remains a national philosophy, evident in community fundraising events and cooperative projects across rural areas. Kenyans are known for their warmth and hospitality, and sharing a meal or a cup of chai with locals remains one of the most authentic ways to connect with the country's spirit.

Food & Cuisine

Kenyan cuisine is hearty, communal, and deeply tied to the land. Ugali — a dense maize flour porridge — is the national staple, traditionally eaten by hand and paired with sukuma wiki (braised collard greens), stewed beans, or nyama choma, the beloved grilled meat that brings Kenyans together at weekend gatherings. Nyama choma, usually goat or beef, is seasoned simply with salt and roasted over charcoal until smoky and tender — it is best enjoyed at a roadside butchery accompanied by kachumbari, a fresh tomato and onion salsa.

Along the coast, the Swahili kitchen draws on Arab and Indian influences, producing fragrant biryanis, pilau rice, coconut fish curries, and freshly baked maandazi doughnuts. Chai — strong black tea brewed with milk and spices — is served at all hours and is practically Kenya's national drink. Street food is excellent and varied: roasted maize, samosas, bhajias, and mkate wa ufuta (sesame flatbread) make for satisfying and affordable snacks as you explore the country's cities and towns.

Top Attractions

  • Masai Mara National Reserve — World-famous game reserve offering year-round wildlife viewing and the spectacular Great Migration from July to October.
  • Amboseli National Park — Iconic park at the foot of Kilimanjaro, famous for its large elephant herds and sweeping savannah views.
  • Lamu Old Town — UNESCO-listed Swahili settlement on the coast, with narrow alleyways, carved wooden doors, and donkey-drawn transport.
  • Mount Kenya — Africa's second-highest peak, offering trekking routes through Afro-alpine landscapes and dramatic glacial scenery.
  • Lake Nakuru — Rift Valley soda lake renowned for flamingo flocks, white rhinos, and diverse birdlife.
  • Diani Beach — Stunning Indian Ocean beach with powdery white sand, turquoise waters, and excellent snorkelling and diving.

Practical Travel Tips

  • Carry cash in Kenyan shillings for rural areas and markets; cards are accepted in major hotels and Nairobi restaurants.
  • Book safari lodges well in advance if travelling during July–September peak season, especially in the Masai Mara.
  • Take anti-malarial medication and apply insect repellent diligently, particularly in low-lying areas and near water.
  • Respect Maasai and other community customs — always ask permission before photographing people.
  • Use M-Pesa mobile money for convenient payments at smaller businesses throughout the country.
  • Bargaining is expected in markets but approach it with good humour and respect for the seller's livelihood.
  • Keep valuables secure in Nairobi; use hotel safes and avoid displaying expensive cameras or jewellery in crowded areas.

Visa Overview

Kenya introduced an Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) system in 2024, replacing the previous visa-on-arrival arrangement. Most nationalities must apply online before travel through the official eTa portal, with processing typically taking 72 hours and fees varying by nationality. East African Community citizens from Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi, and South Sudan enter visa-free. Always verify current requirements with the Kenyan immigration authority or your country's embassy before booking, as regulations can change.

Getting Around

Nairobi is served by Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, with good connections across Africa, Europe, and Asia. Domestic flights link Nairobi to Mombasa, Malindi, and safari airstrips efficiently. Long-distance buses and matatus (minibuses) connect major towns affordably but can be crowded. The SGR train between Nairobi and Mombasa is comfortable, scenic, and highly recommended. Within cities, ride-hailing apps like Bolt and Uber are safe and convenient alternatives to negotiating fares with taxis.

Safety Notes

Kenya is generally safe for tourists who exercise standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in Nairobi's city centre and be alert in crowded areas where pickpocketing can occur. Some border regions near Somalia and South Sudan carry elevated risk and should be avoided without authoritative guidance. Check your government's current travel advisory before departure and register with your embassy on arrival for added security.

Live Exchange Rates

Current exchange rates for currencies used in Kenya.

Kenyan shilling (KES) Sh
Updated: 2026-06-09
⌕
Currency CodeRate
1INCH 0.109517
AAVE 0.000125
ADA 0.046527
AED 0.028391
AFN 0.484801
AGIX 0.085341
AKT 0.012421
ALGO 0.084858
ALL 0.638051
AMD 2.849121
AMP 14.597118
ANG 0.013916
AOA 7.097533
APE 0.063224
APT 0.012001
AR 0.004097
ARB 0.096140
ARS 11.180992
ATOM 0.004449
ATS 0.092198
AUD 0.010974
AVAX 0.001161
AWG 0.013838
AXS 0.008346
AZM 65.712406
AZN 0.013142
BAKE 10.594270
BAM 0.013105
BAT 0.081199
BBD 0.015461
BCH 0.000037
BDT 0.948471
BEF 0.270290
BGN 0.013105
BHD 0.002907
BIF 23.056628
BMD 0.007731
BNB 0.000013
BND 0.009953
BOB 0.053537
BRL 0.040234
BSD 0.007731
BSV 0.000648
BSW 23.501040
BTC 0.000000
BTCB 0.105488
BTG 0.023464
BTN 0.739350
BTT 28,892.549276
BUSD 0.007730
BWP 0.104141
BYN 0.021675
BYR 151.541079
BZD 0.015562
CAD 0.010784
CAKE 0.005868
CDF 17.871405
CELO 0.130438
CFX 0.172180
CHF 0.006166
CHZ 0.301009
CLP 7.137495
CNH 0.052414
CNY 0.052407
COMP 0.000437
COP 27.766882
CRC 3.564778
CRO 0.127188
CRV 0.039265
CSPR 3.391405
CUC 0.007732
CUP 0.204890
CVE 0.738845
CVX 0.006310
CYP 0.003922
CZK 0.162153
DAI 0.007735
DASH 0.000211
DCR 0.000636
DEM 0.013105
DFI 9.474487
DJF 1.374730
DKK 0.050080
DOGE 0.090725
DOP 0.449231
DOT 0.008080
DYDX 0.058747
DZD 1.033665
EEK 0.104838
EGLD 0.002672
EGP 0.403210
ENJ 0.258097
EOS 0.122989
ERN 0.115961
ESP 1.114840
ETB 1.227047
ETC 0.001110
ETH 0.000005
EUR 0.006700
EURC 0.006699
FEI 0.007740
FIL 0.010133
FIM 0.039838
FJD 0.017157
FKP 0.005791
FLOW 0.290625
FLR 1.091145
FRAX 0.007788
FRF 0.043951
FTT 0.026703
GALA 3.002756
GBP 0.005791
GEL 0.020520
GGP 0.005791
GHC 913.543302
GHS 0.091354
GIP 0.005791
GMD 0.568116
GMX 0.001368
GNF 67.691853
GNO 0.000081
GRD 2.283136
GRT 0.392103
GT 0.001216
GTQ 0.058908
GUSD 0.007740
GYD 1.616006
HBAR 0.096212
HKD 0.060578
HNL 0.206461
HNT 0.019071
HOT 25.345734
HRK 0.050484
HT 0.072336
HTG 1.010865
HUF 2.384514
ICP 0.003382
IDR 140.593409
IEP 0.005277
ILS 0.022690
IMP 0.005791
IMX 0.056764
INJ 0.001413
INR 0.739350
IQD 10.129181
IRR 10,631.457177
ISK 0.960857
ITL 12.973641
JEP 0.005791
JMD 1.219279
JOD 0.005481
JPY 1.238904
KAS 0.240133
KAVA 0.176164
KCS 0.001204
KDA 1.122366
KGS 0.675997
KHR 31.064533
KLAY 0.210161
KMF 3.296344
KNC 0.064477
KPW 6.957400
KRW 11.744477
KSM 0.002154
KWD 0.002391
KYD 0.006429
KZT 3.754504
LAK 170.341386
LBP 696.746634
LDO 0.029473
LEO 0.000818
LINK 0.000982
LKR 2.603220
LRC 0.593265
LRD 1.410790
LSL 0.127486
LTC 0.000182
LTL 0.023135
LUF 0.270290
LUNA 0.148312
LUNC 111.621112
LVL 0.004709
LYD 0.049211
MAD 0.071534
MANA 0.117731
MBX 0.274675
MDL 0.134533
MGA 32.468435
MGF 162.342175
MINA 0.183646
MKD 0.412978
MKR 0.000005
MMK 16.231257
MNT 27.672855
MOP 0.062396
MRO 3.107770
MRU 0.310777
MTL 0.002876
MUR 0.369934
MVR 0.119484
MWK 13.421207
MXN 0.134885
MXV 0.015296
MYR 0.031418
MZM 493.613039
MZN 0.493613
NAD 0.127486
NEAR 0.003774
NEO 0.003614
NEXO 0.009872
NFT 28,936.486814
NGN 10.525567
NIO 0.283773
NLG 0.014766
NOK 0.073206
NPR 1.183514
NZD 0.013286
OKB 0.000108
OMR 0.002975
ONE 5.242083
OP 0.082473
ORDI 0.002575
PAB 0.007731
PAXG 0.000002
PEN 0.026837
PEPE 2,787.510910
PGK 0.033875
PHP 0.476066
PI 0.060164
PKR 2.152568
PLN 0.028407
POL 0.101502
PTE 1.343295
PYG 47.330579
QAR 0.028140
QNT 0.000116
QTUM 0.011259
ROL 351.328855
RON 0.035133
RPL 0.005883
RSD 0.786489
RUB 0.564237
RUNE 0.022173
RVN 1.794956
RWF 11.335417
SAND 0.153156
SAR 0.028990
SBD 0.062089
SCR 0.107182
SDD 464.014549
SDG 4.640145
SEK 0.072856
SGD 0.009953
SHIB 1,655.753628
SHP 0.005791
SIT 1.605666
SKK 0.201854
SLE 0.176338
SLL 176.337576
SNX 0.032105
SOL 0.000117
SOS 4.412618
SPL 0.001288
SRD 0.289535
SRG 289.535016
SSP 36.445959
STD 165.834309
STN 0.165834
STX 0.042779
SUI 0.010382
SVC 0.067644
SYP 0.854600
SZL 0.127486
THB 0.254222
THETA 0.051558
TJS 0.072223
TMM 135.272327
TMT 0.027054
TND 0.022601
TON 0.004496
TOP 0.018414
TRL 356,508.350205
TRX 0.023767
TRY 0.356508
TTD 0.052370
TUSD 0.007736
TVD 0.010974
TWD 0.243811
TWT 0.020736
TZS 20.281890
UAH 0.345034
UGX 29.173426
UNI 0.003103
USD 0.007731
USDC 0.007733
USDD 0.007736
USDP 0.007736
USDT 0.007734
UYU 0.311245
UZS 92.968872
VAL 12.973641
VEB 436,550,697.642687
VED 4.365754
VEF 436,575.431976
VES 4.365754
VET 1.596779
VND 203.536405
VUV 0.922340
WAVES 0.030514
WEMIX 0.029861
WOO 0.591217
WST 0.021042
XAF 4.395126
XAG 0.000114
XAU 0.000002
XAUT 0.000002
XBT 0.000000
XCD 0.020926
XCG 0.013916
XCH 0.003761
XDC 0.252200
XDR 0.005670
XEC 1,443.217924
XEM 14.539775
XLM 0.039230
XMR 0.000024
XOF 4.395126
XPD 0.000006
XPF 0.799562
XPT 0.000004
XRP 0.006703
XTZ 0.031992
YER 1.844678
ZAR 0.127486
ZEC 0.000017
ZIL 2.531356
ZMK 136.991849
ZMW 0.136992
ZWD 2.797748
ZWG 0.207209
ZWL 517.758396

No currencies match your search.

Cities in Kenya 352
Browse all cities and towns
Abageranso Abogeta West Ahero Amagoro Athi River Athi River Awasi Awendo Bajumwali Bangali Baolala Baragoi Baricho Bathi Benane Bissil Bomet Bondo Bore Hole Bukura Bulimbo/Harambee Bungoma Bura West Busia Busia Bute Town Butere Chaani Market Chaka Chakama Changamwe Chavakali Chemelil Chemundu ward Chepkube Cheptais Chuka Dadaab Dambas Danaba Dukana Dunto Egerton Ekona El Wak Eldama Ravine Eldas Eldoret Emali Embu Embu Emuhaya Faza Flyover Gakira Gambogi Garba Tula Garissa Garsen Garsen Garsen Town Gatundu Gatura Gazi Gilgil Gilgil Githunguri Githurai Gurar Habswein Hamisi Hola Hola Homa Bay Ibrahim Ure Ifo Refugee Camp Ihithe Isebania Isinya Isiolo Isiolo Isiolo east Iten Jebilat Jepkoyai ward Juja Kabarnet Kajiado Kakamega Kakamega Kakuma Town Kalacha Kalemngorok Kalobeyei Town Kalokol Kaloleni Kaloleni Kambaa Kambiti Town Kangonde Kangoo Kangundo KANGUU MARKET Kaningo town Kap Josiah Centre Kapenguria Kapsabet Kapsoit Kapsowar Karatina Karatina Karuri Karurumo Kasarani Kathageri Kathwana Katilu Katito Kebirigo Keekorok Kehancha Kendu Bay Kenol Kericho Keroka Kerugoya Khorof Harar Khwisero Kiambu Kiambu Kibigori Kibingoti Town Kibwezi Kijabe Kijabe Kikuyu Kikuyu Kilala Kilgoris Kilifi Kilifi Kimende Kimilili Kinango Kinungi Kipini Kirigiti Kiserian Kisii Kisii Kisingitini Kisumu Kisumu Kitale Kitengela Kitui Kitui Kiunduani Town Kombewa Kongoni Konza Technopolis Korendile Kosele Kotulo Kumpa Kutulo Kutus Kwale Lagboqol Laisamis Lamu Lamu Lare Liboi Limuru Limuru Lodwar Loitoktok Loiyangalani Lokichar Lokichogio Lokitaung Londiani Lorugum Luanda Machakos Machakos Machesa Machinery Mado Gashi Mado Gashi Magadi Magina Mai Mahiu Maji Mazuri Makindu Maktau Malava Malindi Malindi Mambrui Mandera Mansa Maragua Maragua Maralal Mariakani Marigat Mariira market Marsabit Marsabit Masalani Maseno Masii Masimba Matano Manne Matungu Mayoni Mbale Mbita Meraf Meru Meru Migori Migori Mitunguu Miwani Mlolongo Mogotio Moi's Bridge Molo Mombasa Mombasa Moyale Moyale Muhoroni Mukarara Mukumu Mulangoni town Mulot Mumias Mumias Munyu Murang'a Muranga Muserechi Shopping Centre Musini Mutithi Mutitu Mutituni Mutomo Mutomo Mwatate Mwingi Mwingi Central location Nadapal Nairobi Naivasha Nakuru Nakururum Namalok Namanga Nanyuki Naro Moru Narok Ndugamano Ngatatoek Ngong Nguni Njabini Njoro Nkubu Ntulele Nyahururu Nyambogi Nyamira Nyeri Nyeri Ogembo Ol Kalou Omboga Ongata Rongai Oyugis Pap Onditi Rhamu Rongai Rongo Roret Ruaka Ruiru Ruiru Rumuruti Runyenjes Sabatia Sagana Sagana Salgaa Sarif Sarman Sawasawa Sega Serem Shianda Shimoni Siaya Sidindi Sigalagala Sigowet Sindo Sirisia Sondu Sori Suneka Suswa Syokimau Takaba Takaungu Tambach Tambua ward Taveta Taveta Thika Thika Timau Timboroa Tseikuru Township Tundwa Turitu Turkwel Ugunja Ukunda Vanga Vanga Vihiga Voi Voi Wagalla Wajir Walda Wamagana Wargadud Wargadud Watamu Webuye Webuye Witu Wote Wundanyi Wundanyi Yaballo Yala

Visa Requirements

Check what visa a citizen of Kenya needs to enter any country.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the capital of Kenya?
The capital of Kenya is Nairobi.
What currency does Kenya use?
Kenya uses the Kenyan shilling (Sh) as its official currency.
What language is spoken in Kenya?
The official language(s) of Kenya include English, Swahili.
What is the population of Kenya?
Kenya has a population of approximately 53,330,978 people.
What region is Kenya in?
Kenya is located in Africa, specifically in the Eastern Africa subregion.
What is the international calling code for Kenya?
The international dialing code for Kenya is +254.
What time zones does Kenya observe?
Kenya observes the following time zone(s): UTC+03:00.
What is the current time in Kenya?
The local time in Kenya is currently --:--. This time applies to the primary time zone.
What is the total area of Kenya?
Kenya covers a total area of 580,367 km².
How many states or provinces does Kenya have?
Kenya is divided into 54 states or provinces.
What are the public holidays in Kenya in 2026?
You can view the complete list of public holidays for Kenya in 2026 on the Holidays 2026 page.
What are the visa requirements for citizens of Kenya?
Visa requirements for citizens of Kenya vary by destination. Use our Visa Requirements Checker below to look up requirements for any destination country.