Nairobi National Park Half-Day Tour
A Nairobi National Park half-day tour is a 5-hour guided game drive in the only national park inside a capital city, 7 km from Nairobi CBD.
From USD 95per person
Kenya eTA Requirements 2026: Do You Need a Visa for a Safari?
Kenya eTA requirements for 2026: who needs an Electronic Travel Authorisation, who is exempt (EAC and most African nationals), cost, how early to apply and documents.
Short answer
Kenya replaced visas with an Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) in January 2024. Most visitors must apply online before flying, usually for about USD 30, at least 3 days ahead. East African Community citizens are exempt, and since 2025 most African nationals (except Libya and Somalia) are exempt too. Entry rules change often, so check the official eTA site before you travel.
Last updated:
What is the Kenya eTA?
The eTA is a pre-travel authorisation you apply for online. Kenya calls itself "visa-free", but most visitors still need an approved eTA before boarding their flight. There is no visa on arrival.
Who needs an eTA, and who is exempt?
- Exempt: Kenyan citizens, citizens of East African Community states, and (since 2025) most African nationals except those of Libya and Somalia. Some permit holders and diplomats are also exempt.
- Need an eTA: most other visitors, including travellers from Europe, the Americas, Asia and the Middle East.
How to apply for a Kenya eTA
- Apply on the official government eTA website. Avoid third-party sites that add fees.
- Upload a passport-style photo, a passport scan, your return or onward flight and your accommodation or tour booking. Our booking confirmation works as proof of your safari.
- Pay the fee (about USD 30 for a standard eTA) and apply at least 3 days before travel.
Other entry requirements to check
You need a passport valid for at least 6 months, a yellow fever certificate if you are arriving from a risk country, and any new rules announced since this page was updated. Some reports in late 2026 mention new health-insurance requirements for visitors. Confirm the latest rules with official sources or your airline before you fly.
Do I need an eTA for a layover?
If you stay airside, generally no. If you leave JKIA for a layover tour, you need entry authorisation, so apply in advance.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a visa to visit Kenya in 2026?
No traditional visa, but most non-African, non-EAC visitors need an approved eTA before travel. EAC citizens and most African nationals are exempt.
How long does the Kenya eTA take?
Apply at least 3 days before travel. Many applications are processed faster, but do not leave it to the last minute.
Can I visit Tanzania on the same trip?
Yes, but Tanzania has its own entry rules. Check them separately before a Kenya–Tanzania safari.
Safaris mentioned in this guide
3 Days Masai Mara Group Joining Safari (Budget)
The 3-day Masai Mara group joining safari is the most affordable way to see the Mara: you share a pop-up roof vehicle with up to 6 other travellers, leave Nairobi daily, stay two nights in a budget tented camp and get a full day of game driving in search of the Big Five.
From USD 308per person
7 Days Kenya Budget Safari
The 7-day Kenya budget safari is a complete first-timer's circuit from Nairobi: two nights in the Masai Mara, Lake Nakuru's rhinos, a Lake Naivasha boat ride and two nights in Amboseli, staying in budget camps with all meals included.
From USD 788per person
Written by the Seemore Tours & Travels team in Nairobi. Spotted something out of date? Tell us and we will update it.