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: 2026-10-05
⌕
Currency CodeRate
1INCH 0.074404
AAVE 0.000043
ADA 0.029112
AED 0.028515
AFN 0.500750
AKT 0.009801
ALGO 0.059292
ALL 0.634799
AMD 2.812740
AMP 12.271745
ANG 0.013980
AOA 7.124603
APE 0.046283
APT 0.009823
AR 0.001735
ARB 0.038621
ARS 11.896910
ATOM 0.004458
ATS 0.095535
AUD 0.011192
AVAX 0.000713
AWG 0.013898
AXS 0.005928
AZM 65.999358
AZN 0.013200
BAKE 32.332740
BAM 0.013579
BAT 0.075596
BBD 0.015529
BCH 0.000024
BDT 0.954806
BEF 0.280072
BGN 0.013579
BHD 0.002919
BIF 23.401411
BMD 0.007764
BNB 0.000010
BND 0.009953
BOB 0.092995
BRL 0.040538
BSD 0.007764
BSV 0.000388
BSW 18.691414
BTC 0.000000
BTCB 0.109557
BTG 0.011737
BTN 0.748835
BTT 20,734.276798
BUSD 0.007746
BWP 0.107239
BYN 0.023337
BYR 151.967360
BZD 0.015628
CAD 0.011091
CAKE 0.003109
CDF 17.947620
CELO 0.073835
CFX 0.143991
CHF 0.006445
CHZ 0.464567
CLP 7.607971
CNH 0.052106
CNY 0.052062
COMP 0.000310
COP 25.470629
CRC 3.556895
CRO 0.113725
CRV 0.020275
CSPR 3.012014
CUC 0.007753
CUP 0.185937
CVE 0.765584
CVX 0.003334
CYP 0.004063
CZK 0.169595
DAI 0.007755
DASH 0.000130
DCR 0.000421
DEM 0.013579
DFI 11.736385
DJF 1.384630
DKK 0.051891
DOGE 0.081487
DOP 0.464770
DOT 0.006399
DYDX 0.053640
DZD 1.038047
EEK 0.108632
EGLD 0.001738
EGP 0.408763
ENJ 0.232277
EOS 0.080523
ERN 0.116468
ESP 1.155187
ETB 1.267650
ETC 0.000866
ETH 0.000003
EUR 0.006943
EURC 0.006930
FEI 0.007754
FIL 0.007402
FIM 0.041280
FJD 0.017500
FKP 0.005878
FLOW 0.245540
FLR 1.074850
FRAX 0.007823
FRF 0.045542
FTT 0.030368
GALA 3.130959
GBP 0.005878
GEL 0.020152
GGP 0.005878
GHC 910.329605
GHS 0.091033
GIP 0.005878
GMD 0.575127
GMX 0.000926
GNF 68.339445
GNO 0.000064
GRD 2.365763
GRT 0.259415
GT 0.000700
GTQ 0.059332
GUSD 0.007768
GYD 1.622999
HBAR 0.075266
HKD 0.060925
HNL 0.208948
HNT 0.013515
HOT 17.341552
HRK 0.052311
HT 0.215012
HTG 1.016022
HUF 2.559970
ICP 0.002386
IDR 139.306039
IEP 0.005468
ILS 0.023696
IMP 0.005878
IMX 0.042733
INJ 0.001027
INR 0.748835
IQD 10.165589
IRR 13,541.683542
ISK 0.952462
ITL 13.443157
JEP 0.005878
JMD 1.228217
JOD 0.005505
JPY 1.227376
KAS 0.181820
KAVA 0.112727
KCS 0.001036
KDA 0.835581
KGS 0.679046
KHR 31.479811
KLAY 0.205905
KMF 3.415639
KNC 0.055170
KPW 6.978096
KRW 10.455507
KSM 0.001506
KWD 0.002399
KYD 0.006443
KZT 3.482383
LAK 175.001838
LBP 696.058369
LDO 0.016652
LEO 0.000869
LINK 0.000551
LKR 2.566037
LRC 0.737899
LRD 1.333354
LSL 0.129935
LTC 0.000111
LTL 0.023972
LUF 0.280072
LUNA 0.153010
LUNC 147.630032
LVL 0.004879
LYD 0.049690
MAD 0.076549
MANA 0.076432
MBX 0.260903
MDL 0.138626
MGA 34.601103
MGF 173.005517
MINA 0.048499
MKD 0.425213
MKR 0.000004
MMK 16.299526
MNT 27.946023
MOP 0.062753
MRO 3.118255
MRU 0.311825
MTL 0.002981
MUR 0.376169
MVR 0.120036
MWK 13.453933
MXN 0.141534
MXV 0.016062
MYR 0.031741
MZM 495.628411
MZN 0.495628
NAD 0.129935
NEAR 0.001592
NEO 0.003050
NEXO 0.009029
NFT 32,302.684539
NGN 10.304427
NIO 0.285276
NLG 0.015300
NOK 0.075037
NPR 1.198698
NZD 0.013889
OKB 0.000062
OMR 0.002988
ONE 0.053112
OP 0.059282
ORDI 0.001720
PAB 0.007764
PAXG 0.000002
PEN 0.026869
PEPE 1,768.273429
PGK 0.034877
PHP 0.487159
PI 0.089387
PKR 2.149939
PLN 0.030464
POL 0.071516
PTE 1.391909
PYG 45.333163
QAR 0.028263
QNT 0.000031
QTUM 0.007906
ROL 371.040075
RON 0.037104
RPL 0.004069
RSD 0.811239
RUB 0.651132
RUNE 0.009937
RVN 3.255661
RWF 11.469424
SAND 0.106362
SAR 0.029117
SBD 0.062650
SCR 0.110706
SDD 466.063824
SDG 4.660638
SEK 0.078306
SGD 0.009953
SHIB 1,315.549841
SHP 0.005878
SIT 1.663775
SKK 0.209159
SLE 0.178934
SLL 178.933651
SNX 0.030877
SOL 0.000064
SOS 4.424821
SPL 0.001294
SRD 0.293621
SRG 293.621330
SSP 44.355416
STD 171.557506
STN 0.171558
STX 0.019676
SUI 0.006376
SVC 0.067939
SYP 100.810187
SZL 0.129935
THB 0.261573
THETA 0.034288
TJS 0.071493
TMM 135.878250
TMT 0.027176
TND 0.023218
TOP 0.018659
TRL 381,699.733048
TRX 0.023142
TRY 0.381700
TTD 0.052615
TUSD 0.007757
TVD 0.011192
TWD 0.246936
TWT 0.013668
TZS 20.435059
UAH 0.349187
UGX 30.968816
UNI 0.000862
USD 0.007764
USDC 0.007754
USDD 0.007757
USDP 0.007768
USDT 0.007756
UYU 0.312713
UZS 91.443066
VAL 13.443157
VEB 673,258,302.132874
VED 6.732583
VEF 673,258.302133
VES 6.732583
VET 0.893263
VND 201.985021
VUV 0.935144
WAVES 0.025807
WEMIX 0.039746
WOO 0.575703
WST 0.021540
XAF 4.554186
XAG 0.000127
XAU 0.000002
XAUT 0.000002
XBT 0.000000
XCD 0.021014
XCG 0.013980
XCH 0.004930
XDC 0.236006
XDR 0.005734
XEC 955.761442
XEM 13.580040
XLM 0.034849
XMR 0.000014
XOF 4.554186
XPD 0.000007
XPF 0.828498
XPT 0.000005
XRP 0.005156
XTZ 0.023639
YER 1.835470
ZAR 0.129935
ZEC 0.000006
ZIL 2.166761
ZMK 152.489510
ZMW 0.152490
ZWD 2.809973
ZWG 0.207827
ZWL 519.303437

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.