General info

Climate

Uganda, Rwandan, Kenya and Tanzania’s climate is very similar to its neighboring, with two rainy seasons taking place from (mid) March till June and around October-November. The European summer as well as winter period is good for wildlife viewing since its generally dry then, but keep in mind that it’s a very popular, and thus busy, time to travel.

The coastal areas have a higher average temperature and humidity, while in the mountainous area near Mount Kenya it can be much colder because of its altitude.

Best time to visit

Also in East Africa National parks are best visited during the dry season, especially between January and March. This is also the most ideal period to enjoy Kenya’s amazing birdlife.

The wildebeest migration in the Maasai Mara Game Reserve can be witnessed in the period from July till October.

Gorilla trekking is an all year round activity but best during the dry seasons.

If you are planning to stay at the coastal area then it’s better to avoid the (long) rainy season.

Visa

The costs for a single entry visa for Kenya is US $50 per person, plus US $1 for service charge and handling fee.

Visas have to be applied and paid for online via the eCitizen portal prior to your arrival. A copy of the eVisa has to be presented upon immigration. Please take into account that the approval of your visa application may take up to one full week.

If you are planning to combine Kenya with a visit to Rwanda and/or Uganda it is recommendable to request for the East African Tourist Visa. This special tourist visa costs US $100 per person and allows 90 days multiple entry to Kenya, Rwanda and Uganda. Regretfully, Tanzania is not (yet) a member of the East African community and therefore not part of this arrangement.

East African Tourist Visa is now available online via the eCitizen portal as well.

Language

Uganda’s national language is Luganda, while English is the official language and widely spoken.

Rwanda’s national language is Kinyarwanda and French, while English is the official language and widely spoken.

Kenya and Tanzania’s national language is Kiswahili, while English is the official language and widely spoken.

Electricity

In East Africa the voltage is 220-240 volts. You will need a rectangular 3-square pin adapter (British style). Keep in mind that power cuts are common in Kenya so it is recommended to carry a torch with you and always recharge appliances when the power is available.

Money

The national currency in Uganda is the Uganda Shilling (UGX).

The national currency in Rwanda is the Rwandan Franc (RWF).

The national currency in Kenya is the Kenya Shilling (KSh).

The national currency in Tanzania is the Tanzania Shilling (TSh).

US dollar notes, euros and British sterling are widely accepted and can be exchanged at banks, bureau the changes and a number of hotels. ATM’s can be found in major towns and most accept international (Visa) cards.

PLEASE NOTE (East) African countries, US dollars notes that are printed in/after 2003 are not welcome, so ensure that you carry new notes.

Credit cards are accepted at some of the major hotels but usually a 5-10% surcharge will be added.

Health

A certificate of yellow fever is required for entry into East Africa. In addition it is advisable to take malaria prophylactic as malaria is present almost everywhere in the 4 countries.

Kindly always consult your travel doctor for the latest health advice before travelling to East Africa.