Do I need a visa for Kenya?

Do I need a visa for Kenya

Kenya no longer issues visas on arrival — since January 2024, most foreign nationals must apply online for an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) at etakenya.go.ke before boarding. The fee is USD 30, processing takes about three working days, and the eTA is valid for 90 days from issue for a single entry.

East African Community citizens (Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi, South Sudan, DRC) are exempt; all other travellers, including infants, need approval in advance.

Key Planning Points

These practical notes help you turn the direct answer above into a workable safari plan:

• Kenya no longer issues visas on arrival — since January 2024, most foreign nationals must apply online for an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) at etakenya.go.ke before boarding.
• The fee is USD 30, processing takes about three working days, and the eTA is valid for 90 days from issue for a single entry.
• East African Community citizens (Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi, South Sudan, DRC) are exempt; all other travellers, including infants, need approval in advance.

Costs, Permits, and Logistics

Confirm current fees when you book — tariffs are set by national park authorities and can change by season or residency status.

• Permits and park fees are fixed; savings usually come from lodge tier, vehicle sharing, and season.
• All-inclusive packages clarify what is bundled versus paid locally (tips, drinks, optional activities).
• Queen Elizabeth NP entry is about $40/day; Murchison Falls about $45/day (foreign non-resident rates).
• Road transfers are long — AeroLink flights to Kihihi/Kisoro save a full day on gorilla circuits.
• Maasai Mara park fees vary by season (roughly $100–$200 per 24 hours for non-residents).
• Wilson Airport bush flights connect Nairobi to Mara, Amboseli, and Samburu in under 90 minutes.

Sample Itinerary Shape

Most travellers anchor the trip around one flagship experience (gorilla trek, migration, or Big Five loop), then add supporting nights for chimps, boat safaris, or cultural stops. Avoid stacking long drives on the same day as a primate trek.

Booking With a Licensed Operator

Uganda Safari Tours coordinates permits, park entries, lodge blocks, and private 4x4 logistics so your itinerary matches the advice on this page. Share your travel month, group size, and comfort level for a quote with transparent inclusions.