Power & Connectivity (SIM)

Kenya uses 240V / 50Hz with Type G sockets (the British three rectangular pins). Bring a Type G adapter; travellers from 100–127V countries need a converter for devices that are not dual-voltage. Power cuts can occur, so a power bank is handy.

The main operators are Safaricom (the largest), Airtel Kenya and Telkom Kenya. Prepaid SIMs are sold at the airport, operator shops and many kiosks; registration requires your passport. 4G/LTE is good in cities but can be patchy in safari areas and rural regions.

eSIM support is expanding in Kenya, and travel eSIM plans are a convenient option: buy one online before arrival and install it in minutes, with no physical SIM or shop visit. Check whether your chosen plan uses a local network and confirm your phone is eSIM-capable.

Wi-Fi is common in hotels, cafés and shopping malls, and is generally reliable in Nairobi and Mombasa. In safari lodges and remote areas it can be slow or limited. A local SIM or eSIM is useful when moving around. Use a VPN on public networks for sensitive tasks like banking.

Internet access in Kenya is generally open, and common social media, messaging and travel apps work normally. There is no widespread everyday blocking of major services. As anywhere, follow local laws and standard online-safety practices, and use a VPN on public networks for sensitive tasks.

M-Pesa (by Safaricom) is central to daily life: many shops, transport services and person-to-person transfers use it. Travellers with a local number can use it too. Ride-hailing apps like Uber, Bolt and Little work in Nairobi and other cities. Maps and messaging apps round out a useful travel toolkit.

Kenya's country code is +254. To call abroad, dial the international prefix then the country code. For local calls a prepaid SIM with a bundle is cheapest, while apps like WhatsApp are widely used for voice and video over data or Wi-Fi. The emergency number is 999 (also 112).