When I first told people I was planning to relocate to Kenya, I got a mix of wide-eyed stares, curious questions, and that familiar: “Why Kenya?” But if you’re reading this, you already get it. Maybe it’s the breathtaking safaris, the booming tech industry, the warm culture, or the chance to simply start over somewhere fresh. Whatever your reason, relocating to Kenya is a bold and beautiful decision and one you should make with your eyes wide open.
This guide is your no-fluff, realistic, yet friendly roadmap. Whether you’re relocating solo, with a partner, or as a family here’s exactly what you need to know before your feet hit the red Kenyan soil.

1. Entry Visas and Documentation: What You Need Before Booking That Flight
Let’s start with the boring-but-vital stuff: paperwork.
Kenya is visa-friendly, but don’t just assume you can book a ticket and go. Most travelers need an eVisa, which is processed online through the Kenya eVisa portal. Tourist, business, or transit visas are straightforward, but if you're relocating, you’ll need more:
If you're planning to stay long-term, consider:
Class D Permit: For employment.
Class G Permit: For investors or entrepreneurs.
Dependent Pass: If you’re joining a spouse or parent.
Make sure you apply before you travel or soon after arrival  overstaying or working without the proper permit can get you fined or deported.

2. Cost of Living: Affordable, But Not Dirt Cheap
Don’t be fooled, Kenya isn’t “cheap Africa.”
Yes, you’ll likely pay less for rent, transportation, and food than in Western countries, but it highly depends on where you live and your lifestyle.
In Nairobi (the capital), expect:
1-bedroom apartment in a decent area: $250–$500/month
Utilities & internet: $70–$150/month
Groceries for a couple: $150–$300/month
Transport (Uber, Matatus, Boda-Bodas) is affordable, but traffic is real.
Mombasa or smaller towns like Naivasha or Karen are more affordable but slower-paced.
Pro Tip: If you're earning in USD or Euros, you'll be comfortable. But if you plan to job hunt locally, salaries can be modest accordingly.

3. WEATHER IN KENYA: WHAT TO EXPECT YEAR-ROUND

Kenya offers a mix of climates depending on where you stay:

Nairobi (Highland Climate)

Cool and pleasant year-round.

Average temperatures: 12°C – 26°C (53°F – 79°F).

Two rainy seasons: March–May (long rains) and Oct–Dec (short rains).

Mombasa & Coastline (Tropical Climate)

Hot and humid most of the year.

Average temperatures: 24°C – 32°C (75°F – 90°F).

Expect seasonal rains and beautiful beach weather most of the year.

Packing Tip: Bring layers for Nairobi (especially nights) and light, breathable clothing for the coast.

4. Healthcare & Safety: Stay Informed, Stay Safe
Kenya has both public and private healthcare systems. For expats, private hospitals are the go-to.
Recommended facilities include:
Aga Khan University Hospital (Nairobi)
Nairobi Hospital
MP Shah Hospital
Avenue Healthcare (wider coverage)
Always get health insurance international plans like Cigna, Aetna, or local expat-focused ones work well.
Safety-wise, Kenya is generally peaceful, but urban areas like Nairobi have pockets where petty crime (theft, scams) can occur. Be street-smart:
Don’t flash money or expensive gadgets.
Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar places.
Use trusted taxis or Uber/Bolt.

4. Connectivity: Mobile, Wi-Fi, and Staying Online
Kenya is one of the most connected countries in Africa.
Mobile data is cheap and fast. Get a SIM card from:
Safaricom (best coverage)
Airtel
Telkom Kenya
With M-Pesa, you can pay rent, shop, send money, and even pay bills all from your phone.
Home internet? No problem.
Zuku and Safaricom Home Fiber are popular options
Packages range from $25–$60/month for decent speeds

5. Where to Live: Nairobi, Mombasa, or…?
Nairobi: The buzzing capital which is great for digital nomads, entrepreneurs, and job seekers. Bustling, modern, but has traffic issues.
Mombasa: Coastal paradise. Slower-paced, humid, with beaches nearby. Great if you prefer a more relaxed life.
Nakuru, Eldoret, Karen: Affordable alternatives. Not as fast-paced but offer a good quality of life.
Expat-friendly neighborhoods in Nairobi:
Kilimani
Kileleshwa
Lavington
Westlands(more suburban)

Pro Tip: Visit before committing to a lease. Some “safe” areas may feel too quiet or too crowded depending on your vibe.

6. Cultural Vibes and Language: Learning to Blend In
Kenyans are friendly, warm, and proud of their culture. Swahili is widely spoken, but English is also an official language especially in cities.
They are generally polite and hospitable. Take time to greet people, respect elders, and be patient things often run on “Kenyan time.”
Don’t be surprised if strangers say “hi” often it’s part of the culture
Still, learning a few phrases will take you far:
Habari – Hello
Asante – Thank you
Karibu – Welcome
Pole pole – Slowly/Take it easy
Habari yako? – How are you?
Asante sana – Thank you very much
Expect:
A slower pace of life
Lots of greetings before business
Hospitality and storytelling
Note: Religion is big. Most Kenyans are Christian or Muslim, and spiritual values shape the culture.

7. Working and Earning: Jobs, Remote Work & Business
Kenya is Africa’s Silicon Savannah, a rising tech hub with great opportunities for remote work and entrepreneurship.
Tech (Nairobi is called Silicon Savannah)
Tourism
Agriculture
Construction
Freelancing and remote work
If you work online, Kenya has great infrastructure to support your hustle. Digital nomads love it here.
Looking for local work? You may need to network and hustle harder. Salaries for locals are lower than in the West, and competition can be stiff.
Starting a business? Kenya is entrepreneur-friendly with the right paperwork and persistence, you can register your business and start trading.

8. What to Pack: Essentials for Your New Life
You’ll find most things in Kenya, but here’s what you might want to bring:
Quality electronics (laptops/phones are pricey).
Plug adapters (UK-style, Type G).
Prescription meds (stock up if unique).
Modest but stylish clothes (for church, interviews, daily wear).
Comfortable shoes (you’ll walk more than you think).
Travel documents (multiple copies).
Don’t overpack. Kenya has malls, boutiques, and local markets  you’ll adapt quickly.

9. The Airport Experience: JKIA Tips
You’ll likely land at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) in Nairobi.
Pro tips:
Print your eVisa confirmation.
My onHave your return/onward ticket handy.
Dress presentably for immigration officers.
Use airport taxis or Bolt to get to your destination.
Watch your luggage and avoid giving money to "helpers".
The airport is organized, but if you're tired after a long flight, it's easy to feel overwhelmed. Take it slow.

10. Before You Relocate: Final Checklist
▪️Apply for the correct visa or permit.

▪️ Budget for 3–6 months of living expenses.

▪️ Research your ideal city/neighborhood.

▪️ Secure short-term accommodation for arrival.

▪️ Join expat groups on Facebook (very active).

▪️ Set up health insurance.

▪️ Learn basic Swahili phrases.

▪️ Pack essentials.

▪️ Prepare mentally for a slower-paced, deeply relational culture.

Final Thoughts: Your Kenyan Adventure Awaits
Relocating to Kenya isn’t just about moving to a new country, it's about embracing a different rhythm of life.
There will be surprises, delays, and cultural nuances you didn’t expect. But there will also be sunsets that take your breath away, food that warms your soul, and people who become family.
Come with a  smart plan but also come with humility, patience, and curiosity. Kenya will stretch you, shape you, and if you let it, change you in the best way.

Got questions? Drop them in the comments or message me directly. I would love to help you make your relocation smoother.