Prepare your Stay

Good to Know:

Plug type: 3 pins
Currency: KES - Kenyan shilling (KES)
Languages: Swahili, English
Time Zone: GMT +3 hour(s)                                                                                    

Location: 

The capital of Kenya derives its name from Enkare Nyrobi, a Masai phrase which translates to cold water, yet the city is more popularly known as the Green City in the Sun. Quickly making a name for itself as the gateway to East Africa, with a daily influx of thousands of travellers, Nairobi is home to many multinational conglomerates and business institutions. With a generous mix of modern shopping malls and lush green suburbs, golf courses and even a race track, this is a perfect place to mix business with pleasure. There are numerous top attractions within easy reach.

Climate:

Tempered by its high elevation, Nairobi tends to be less hot than the rest of Kenya. As the city is near the equator, there is little variation between the seasons. Generally, people talk about wet or dry seasons as opposed to summer, winter, spring or autumn. Although rain does fall during late summer and into autumn, it is seldom very heavy, making this an attractive year-round destination.

Currency:

The currency is the Kenyan shilling; KES is made up of 100 cents.

Language: 

More than 40 ethnic languages are spoken in Kenya. Although the national language is Swahili, most Kenyans also understand and speak very good English.

General Etiquette:

The dress code in Kenya is reasonably conservative. Kenyans love dressing up for a special occasion and in the evenings. Bring light to moderate casual wear, jeans, cotton shirts, blouses and dresses for the ladies. Kenyans are humble, friendly and social people. Handshaking is a cultural gesture, and you are always encouraged to strike a conversation with the person next to you. Remember to say please and thank you, as well as offer up a warm smile. These will go a long way in this gracious nation. Say "jambo" or "hujambo" as a generic "hello". They can be very useful.

Business Etiquette:

Before you begin work in Kenya, you should know a bit about local etiquette. Address all people with their full name or title at first. No matter what you may have heard about 'Kenyan time', try to be punctual for appointments and business meetings. In the urban business world, particularly in the private sector, being punctual is more and more appreciated. If there for business, dress accordingly.

Kenyan Food: 

Traditional Kenyan foods reflect the lifestyles of the various groups in the country. Nairobi is very internationally influenced and offers a rich diversity of dishes from India, Italy, Asia and Europe. Whatever you are looking for, you are bound to find it.

Tipping:

Most major hotels and restaurants include a service charge on their bill. Although tipping is not mandatory, you may tip porters and taxi drivers at your discretion. Ten percent is customary in restaurants, clubs and bars where service charge is not included.

Wi-Fi:

With our complimentary Wi-Fi, guests can effortlessly stay in touch with family and friends during their stay at Villa Rosa Kempinski Nairobi, or ensure that all business commitments are dependably dealt with. Our Wi-Fi access extends throughout the hotel, meaning everyone can expect a consistent service wherever they are.

Travellers' Checklist

Visa

A Kenya visa is required for citizens from most countries, including children. There are different types of visas. The main ones are single entry, multiple entry and transit visas, depending on your purpose. Visas can be obtained directly on entry for nationals of most countries. Please do check the requirements for your country prior to travel.

Health

For visitors to Kenya, the only obligatory vaccine is for yellow fever, although you may want to consult your travel clinic about other shots, such as for hepatitis, meningitis etc. Malaria remains a concern, and it is recommended that you take prophylactics as well as precautions by using insect repellents and covering up in the evenings. If you are only travelling to Nairobi or to the highlands above 2,500 m, your risk is between low and none.

Photography

There is much to learn and photograph in Kenya, but please be mindful of respecting your position as a guest in the country. Only photograph people and children with their express consent.

Insurance

Medical insurance is recommended to cover the unlikely expenses in the case of an emergency or loss. Make sure to read all insurance specifications.