Guide to Kenya

Full name: The Republic of Kenya
Location: Eastern Africa. Borders Uganda, Somalia, Tanzania, Ethiopia and Indian Ocean
Population: 32.8 million (UN, 2005)
Capital: Nairobi
Area: 582,646 sq km (224,961 sq miles)
Major languages: Swahili, English
Major religion: Christianity
Life expectancy: 48 years (men), 46 years (women) (UN)
Monetary unit: 1 Kenya shilling = 100 cents Ksh (slang Bob)
Main exports: Tea, coffee, horticultural products, petroleum products
GNI per capita: US $530 (World Bank, 2006)
Internet domain: .ke
Voltage: 240 volts AC. Use a three square pin plug, 13 amp type.
International dialling code: +254
Time Zone: GMT+3
Tipping: 10% service chasrge in hotels and restaurants.
How to pay: All major international credit cards are accepted. Travellers cheques are accepted at most banks, bureaus and hotels.
ATMs: 24 hour access to your account can be found at most ATMS. Most accept international VISA cards
Water: The water is most city hotels is generally safe to drink. If in doubt, bottled water is available. Most safari lodges provide filtered water.

Entry Requirements: A visa is required. Applications can be made at any Kenya High Commission or embassy prior to travelling. The single entry fee is US$50 or equivalent in local currency and can be paid on arrival.

Terrain: the Kenyan Highlands comprise one of the most successful agricultural production regions in Africa; glaciers are found on Mount Kenya, Africa's second highest peak; unique physiography supports abundant and varied wildlife of scientific and economic value

International Airport:
Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) Nairobi
This airport is around 30 minutes drive from Nairobi city centre. Taxis are easy to find but establish a fare before getting in.

Moi Interntional Airport, Mombasa
The airport is around 10 minutes drive from the city centre. Most hotels are situated to the north and south coastal regions. Allow an extra half an hour for your journey to the south coast because of the ferry crossing,

Highlights
Kenya is one of Africa's most popular safari destinations.
The Nairobi Natonal Park is a must visit and easy to get to as it is located just 10 minutes from the city centre.

Public Holidays
January 1st - New Years Day
May 1st - Labour Day
June 1 - Madaraka (self rule) Day
October 10 - Moi Day
October 20 - Kenyatta Day
December 12 - Uhuru/Jamhuri Day (Independence/Republic)
December 25 - Christmas Day
December 26 - Boxing Day

Moveable dates: Good Friday, Easter Monday, Eid-ul-Fitr

11 October 2007