🇰🇪 Kenya

Kenya is the heartland of East Africa with incredible cultural diversity across 40+ ethnic groups. Kenyan culture centers on 'harambee' (pulling together) community spirit, respect for elders, and Ubuntu philosophy. The country balances ancient tribal traditions with rapid technological innovation - Kenya pioneered mobile money with M-Pesa. Swahili culture along the coast blends African, Arab, and Indian influences.

Greetings Matter: Take time for proper greetings - 'Jambo' or 'Hujambo' with handshakes. Elder Respect: Always greet elders first, stand when they enter. Time Flexibility: 'Kenyan time' means relaxed schedules - patience appreciated. Mobile Money: M-Pesa is everywhere - get a local SIM card. Chai Culture: Tea breaks are social institutions, accept when offered.

Kenyan society is built on extended family networks and community cooperation ('harambee'). Age brings respect - younger people defer to elders in conversations and decisions. Kikuyu, Luo, Luhya, and Kalenjin are major ethnic groups with distinct languages and customs. Christianity is widespread but traditional beliefs persist. Music, dance, and oral storytelling remain central to cultural identity across all communities.

Dry Season (Jun-Oct, Jan-Mar): Best for safaris and outdoor activities, clear skies, temperatures 20-28°C. Long Rains (Mar-May): Heavy afternoon showers, lush landscapes, fewer tourists, 18-26°C. Short Rains (Oct-Dec): Brief showers, green season, good for birding, 22-30°C. Coast is tropical year-round, highlands cooler. Great Wildebeest Migration Jul-Oct in Maasai Mara.

Matatus: Shared minibuses for local routes - authentic but crowded experience. Boda Bodas: Motorcycle taxis for short distances - negotiate price, wear helmets. SGR Train: Modern railway connecting Nairobi-Mombasa, comfortable and scenic. Domestic Flights: Connect remote areas like Samburu and Turkana. Car Rental: 4WD recommended for parks, drive on left, watch for wildlife on roads.

Budget Travel (KSh 2000-4000/day): Hostels/budget hotels KSh 500-1500, nyama choma/local food KSh 200-500, matatu transport KSh 50-200, community conservancies. Mid-Range (KSh 4000-8000/day): Mid-range lodges KSh 2000-5000, restaurant meals KSh 500-1200, park entry fees KSh 1030, guided tours. Luxury (KSh 8000+/day): Safari lodges KSh 5000-30000+, fine dining KSh 1000-3000+, private conservancies, helicopter transfers.

English and Swahili are official languages, with 40+ local languages. Essential Swahili: 'Jambo' (hello), 'Asante' (thank you), 'Karibu' (welcome), 'Pole pole' (slowly/take it easy), 'Hakuna matata' (no problem). English widely spoken, especially in cities. Learning basic Swahili shows respect and brings huge smiles from locals.

Kenya is generally safe but requires street awareness in Nairobi and Mombasa. Avoid displaying valuables, don't walk alone after dark in cities. Wildlife can be dangerous - maintain distance, never get out of vehicles in parks. Altitude sickness possible in highlands. Malaria risk in coastal/lake areas - use prophylaxis. Emergency: 999 (police), 911 (ambulance). Medical facilities good in major cities.

Kenyan Shilling (KSh) is the currency. M-Pesa mobile money revolutionary and everywhere - get local SIM card. Cards accepted in upscale establishments. Typical costs: Chai tea KSh 20-50, Nyama choma meal KSh 300-800, Matatu ride KSh 20-100, Safari day trip KSh 8000-15000. Tipping: 10% restaurants, KSh 500-1000/day safari guides, KSh 100-200 hotel staff.