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: 2026-08-20
⌕
Currency CodeRate
1INCH 0.089270
AAVE 0.000081
ADA 0.041498
AED 0.028372
AFN 0.505637
AGIX 0.135769
AKT 0.015028
ALGO 0.093844
ALL 0.612972
AMD 2.804301
AMP 20.138751
ANG 0.013838
AOA 7.094944
APE 0.060073
APT 0.013810
AR 0.004157
ARB 0.088327
ARS 11.565636
ATOM 0.005177
ATS 0.091003
AUD 0.010868
AVAX 0.001140
AWG 0.013829
AXS 0.008571
AZM 65.664866
AZN 0.013133
BAKE 11.106150
BAM 0.012935
BAT 0.123552
BBD 0.015451
BCH 0.000037
BDT 0.940012
BEF 0.266787
BGN 0.012935
BHD 0.002905
BIF 22.978048
BMD 0.007725
BNB 0.000012
BND 0.009823
BOB 0.088734
BRL 0.040006
BSD 0.007725
BSV 0.000483
BSW 21.316963
BTC 0.000000
BTCB 0.130520
BTG 0.017606
BTN 0.738719
BTT 28,395.870668
BUSD 0.007720
BWP 0.103914
BYN 0.023358
BYR 151.396624
BZD 0.015518
CAD 0.010663
CAKE 0.004794
CDF 17.709916
CELO 0.123446
CFX 0.176385
CHF 0.006170
CHZ 0.604339
CLP 7.119633
CNH 0.051957
CNY 0.051960
COMP 0.000419
COP 23.584188
CRC 3.478084
CRO 0.155040
CRV 0.029610
CSPR 2.892579
CUC 0.007724
CUP 0.204694
CVE 0.729269
CVX 0.004776
CYP 0.003871
CZK 0.159845
DAI 0.007725
DASH 0.000243
DCR 0.000654
DEM 0.012935
DFI 7.763894
DJF 1.372130
DKK 0.049441
DOGE 0.102901
DOP 0.451187
DOT 0.009761
DYDX 0.070229
DZD 1.025277
EEK 0.103479
EGLD 0.002719
EGP 0.391307
ENJ 0.305305
EOS 0.117055
ERN 0.115882
ESP 1.100391
ETB 1.255510
ETC 0.001171
ETH 0.000003
EUR 0.006613
EURC 0.006660
FEI 0.007716
FIL 0.011476
FIM 0.039322
FJD 0.016999
FKP 0.005678
FLOW 0.267198
FLR 1.201534
FRAX 0.007791
FRF 0.043382
FTT 0.037221
GALA 5.361417
GBP 0.005678
GEL 0.020128
GGP 0.005678
GHC 854.846001
GHS 0.085485
GIP 0.005678
GMD 0.572488
GMX 0.001135
GNF 67.796262
GNO 0.000064
GRD 2.253544
GRT 0.552135
GT 0.001110
GTQ 0.058803
GUSD 0.007738
GYD 1.606937
HBAR 0.109007
HKD 0.060584
HNL 0.206534
HNT 0.044571
HOT 22.876920
HRK 0.049829
HT 0.068025
HTG 1.004792
HUF 2.406726
ICP 0.003331
IDR 137.528216
IEP 0.005209
ILS 0.023010
IMP 0.005678
IMX 0.073845
INJ 0.001663
INR 0.738719
IQD 10.061970
IRR 10,617.846898
ISK 0.940508
ITL 12.805487
JEP 0.005678
JMD 1.213618
JOD 0.005477
JPY 1.223374
KAS 0.289721
KAVA 0.187690
KCS 0.001059
KDA 1.645275
KGS 0.676320
KHR 31.113431
KLAY 0.314300
KMF 3.253620
KNC 0.073003
KPW 6.951888
KRW 10.766244
KSM 0.002509
KWD 0.002381
KYD 0.006417
KZT 3.563544
LAK 173.198664
LBP 690.528281
LDO 0.022800
LEO 0.000831
LINK 0.000737
LKR 2.542008
LRC 0.971080
LRD 1.398784
LSL 0.124386
LTC 0.000164
LTL 0.022835
LUF 0.266787
LUNA 0.174724
LUNC 152.913508
LVL 0.004648
LYD 0.048885
MAD 0.071496
MANA 0.115236
MBX 0.373579
MDL 0.132430
MGA 33.089520
MGF 165.447598
MINA 0.180778
MKD 0.407883
MKR 0.000005
MMK 16.219256
MNT 27.791712
MOP 0.062401
MRO 3.076910
MRU 0.307691
MTL 0.002839
MUR 0.362865
MVR 0.119426
MWK 13.334554
MXN 0.130928
MXV 0.014945
MYR 0.031232
MZM 492.995177
MZN 0.492995
NAD 0.124386
NEAR 0.004431
NEO 0.004244
NEXO 0.010345
NFT 27,430.801222
NGN 10.403883
NIO 0.283463
NLG 0.014574
NOK 0.072063
NPR 1.182505
NZD 0.012997
OKB 0.000075
OMR 0.002973
ONE 10.707930
OP 0.086982
ORDI 0.002098
PAB 0.007725
PAXG 0.000002
PEN 0.025886
PEPE 2,666.910900
PGK 0.034683
PHP 0.476033
PI 0.085967
PKR 2.135683
PLN 0.028563
POL 0.094641
PTE 1.325884
PYG 46.226162
QAR 0.028121
QNT 0.000131
QTUM 0.010703
ROL 346.968448
RON 0.034697
RPL 0.004968
RSD 0.776077
RUB 0.648865
RUNE 0.018113
RVN 2.963503
RWF 11.328365
SAND 0.187037
SAR 0.028970
SBD 0.061807
SCR 0.112063
SDD 463.653273
SDG 4.636533
SEK 0.072908
SGD 0.009823
SHIB 1,630.463321
SHP 0.005678
SIT 1.584855
SKK 0.199238
SLE 0.177009
SLL 177.009129
SNX 0.037689
SOL 0.000091
SOS 4.381341
SPL 0.001288
SRD 0.292065
SRG 292.064935
SSP 43.795362
STD 163.087346
STN 0.163087
STX 0.059224
SUI 0.010947
SVC 0.067598
SYP 100.431576
SZL 0.124386
THB 0.253657
THETA 0.051400
TJS 0.070862
TMM 135.167357
TMT 0.027033
TND 0.022389
TOP 0.018403
TRL 370,470.781714
TRX 0.023128
TRY 0.370471
TTD 0.052222
TUSD 0.007737
TVD 0.010868
TWD 0.245954
TWT 0.019317
TZS 20.447343
UAH 0.345041
UGX 28.704183
UNI 0.002110
USD 0.007725
USDC 0.007724
USDD 0.007729
USDP 0.007734
USDT 0.007728
UYU 0.309099
UZS 90.738091
VAL 12.805487
VEB 599,704,349.202293
VED 5.983612
VEF 598,361.158953
VES 5.983612
VET 1.591601
VND 201.808740
VUV 0.913762
WAVES 0.039175
WEMIX 0.039918
WOO 0.700369
WST 0.020806
XAF 4.338160
XAG 0.000115
XAU 0.000002
XAUT 0.000002
XBT 0.000000
XCD 0.020912
XCG 0.013838
XCH 0.005453
XDC 0.277725
XDR 0.005642
XEC 1,101.805884
XEM 16.500840
XLM 0.044980
XMR 0.000018
XOF 4.338160
XPD 0.000006
XPF 0.789198
XPT 0.000004
XRP 0.006962
XTZ 0.035463
YER 1.831483
ZAR 0.124386
ZEC 0.000014
ZIL 3.178196
ZMK 144.720709
ZMW 0.144721
ZWD 2.795845
ZWG 0.206041
ZWL 514.838375

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.