The Ultimate First-Timer's Guide to Kenya: Planning Your Perfect Luxury Trip
Welcome to Kenya! If you're planning your first journey here, you're about to experience the magic of East Africa. From the bustling, vibrant energy of Nairobi to the breathtaking silence of the Maasai Mara.
Planning your first major international trip can be daunting, but we've compiled this guide to tackle your biggest logistical questions. At Apartments on Demand, we don't just provide curated luxury stays; we are your local experts dedicated to ensuring your entire experience is seamless and unforgettable.
1. The First Steps: Entry & Essentials
Before you pack your bags, here are the essential logistics you need to finalize:
Entry Requirements: The Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA)
As of January 2024, foreign nationals must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) online before traveling to Kenya. While the traditional visa process has changed, this step is mandatory. Ensure you apply well in advance of your flight.
Health and Wellness
Malaria: Nairobi is generally low-risk, but if your trip includes a safari (especially the coast or rural areas), consult your doctor about anti-malaria prophylaxis.
Vaccinations: Recommended vaccinations include Yellow Fever (required if arriving from certain countries), Typhoid, and Hepatitis A.
2. Your Home Base: Mastering Nairobi
Nairobi is likely your arrival and departure point. Choosing the right accommodation is key to a relaxing and productive stay.
Why Choose Apartments on Demand?
For first-time visitors, a luxury serviced apartment offers significant advantages over a standard hotel:
Space & Privacy: Enjoy separate living areas, private security, and the comforts of home.
Financial Flexibility: We understand trust is earned. That’s why we offer clients the ability to Book with Us and Pay Upon Checking In—giving you peace of mind.
Location: Our apartments are strategically located in key neighborhoods favored by international travelers and executives.
Best Neighborhoods for a Luxury Stay
We recommend these areas for first-time, high-end travelers:
Westlands: The city's main business and entertainment hub. Perfect for executives needing easy access to corporate offices, high-end dining, and major transport links.
Kilimani / Kileleshwa: Residential, quieter, and popular for longer leisure stays. Offers a great mix of local culture and high-quality amenities, including resorts and shopping centers.
Ready to choose your neighborhood? Chat with us directly on our website, and we can guide you to the perfect apartment based on your itinerary and preferences.
From JKIA to Your Door
The first few hours after landing can be stressful. We recommend arranging a reliable transfer in advance or using trusted apps like Uber or Bolt for your ride from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) to your apartment. The ride time to Westlands or Kilimani typically ranges from 30 minutes to over an hour, depending on traffic.
3. Combining City & Safari: The Kenyan Journey
For many, a trip to Kenya is incomplete without a safari. Your Apartments on Demand luxury stay serves as the perfect launchpad.
Seamless Safari Packages
We offer tailor-made Safari Packages that combine the convenience of your Nairobi base with an unforgettable wildlife experience in destinations like the Maasai Mara or Amboseli.
We recommend this synergy: Relaxing luxury city stay → thrilling safari adventure → return to the apartment for final rest and departure.
Interested in a combined trip? Book with us for both your accommodation and your safari. We handle the logistics so you can focus on the experience.
4. Essentials: Culture, Money, and Safety
Language: English is the official language. Learning a few Swahili phrases goes a long way: Jambo (Hello), Asante (Thank you), Karibu (Welcome).
Money: The Kenyan Shilling (KES) is the local currency. ATMs are widely available, and all major businesses accept credit cards.
Safety: Nairobi is a dynamic city. Practice common-sense safety: do not display excessive valuables, use reputable transport, and always be aware of your surroundings.
Your Next Step: Book Your Kenyan Experience!
Your journey to Kenya is just a few clicks away. We are here to simplify your planning process, from securing the most elegant accommodation to curating your perfect safari.
Don't wait!
Book with us now to secure your luxury apartment.
Chat with us directly via the website for personalized recommendations on neighborhoods, safaris, or any travel questions you may have.