Travel FAQs

May the Lord bless you as you consider serving him in Kenya!  We hope these FAQs can assist you as you make preparations.  This page can be a guide for those with questions about what traveling to Mbitini will be like. 

DISCLAIMER: This list was created based upon travel experiences to Mbitini, Kenya in 2011 and 2012.  This list is merely a suggestion and not intended to be accurate for every traveler.  This is a general guide only.  Please verify all information.  This ministry is not responsible for any adverse effects from this information. 

Q: What preparations are needed before leaving?

A: First and foremost, if you are planning on visiting Mbitini Emmanuel Children’s Home, you will need to contact Theophilus & Esther Kisavi.  If you plan to work with their ministries then you will need to contact them for making possible arrangements.  You need to have a current passport.  It takes months to get one if you do not already have one.  You may want to get the four recommended vaccines for this visiting this area: (1) Typhoid, (2) Yellow Fever, (3) Polio (even if you had this as a child, there is a one-time booster as an adult), and (4) Hepatitis A (there are two shots in the series; the second is given six months after the first).  If you are vaccinated, it is recommended to take your vaccination card with you as you may be asked to show proof of yellow fever vaccine upon returning to the US.  These five shots can cost around $500 and are not usually covered by insurance.  To get the vaccines, I have two recommendations.  Try Passport Health because they offer a discounted office visit rate for those who are going on mission trips.  Another option is to contact a county health department (if the one in your county does not offer vaccines, check with another county!).  These departments offer vaccines for much less than a private office.  It is also recommended to get Malarone daily malaria prevention pills.  The name brand can be $5 a pill but there is a generic that is around 25 cents a pill.  Also, consider medications that you regularly take and the length of your trip.  Be sure you will be able to fill your medications and take enough with you. 

Q: How much will this cost?

A: This is a difficult question to answer because it depends on how many people are going and how long the trip is.  There are also costs before traveling for a passport, vaccines, and medications.  When a group of 3 or more travels together (or meets up in Nairobi), then major costs like hotel rooms, taxi rides, transportation from Nairobi, and food supply for the trip are split among the group.  When only one or two people travel, costs will not be as reduced.  I have created a general guide just for covering basic expenses while in Kenya (this EXCLUDES costs like airfare, luggage fees, vaccinations, passport, medications and other pre-travel expenses):

FOR SOLO OR PAIR TRAVELERS: 

Besides the cost of airfare, plan on a minimum of $125 per week per person.  

FOR GROUPS OF 3 OR MORE TRAVELERS:

Besides the cost of airfare, expenses may be less than $100 per week per person. 

The cost of airfare depends upon the time of year, advanced booking, etc.  When traveling during June, July, or August fares will be higher because that is the peak for American tourism in Kenya.  When booking last minute fares will be higher and availability of flight schedules and seating will be very limited.  Deals as low as $1300 have been found for December travel when booked several months in advance.  My airfare costs were $2400 last minute in August 2011 and $1600 booked months in advance for August 2012 travel.  There is a travel agency, McAbee Tours, who offer discounted tickets for mission trips.  While this has been a useful resource in the past, a credit card fee is now being added to the cost of airfare, so booking on your own may be the most cost effective. 

Although you may be working with the Kisavi’s ministry, they will not handle your funds.  You will be responsible for your funds at all times.  You will need to arrange for money exchanges (having them exchange your money will constitute a higher rate so that you are not cheated), pay for your hotel room and meals, buy food/water/other supplies, pay for your passage when traveling in the country (there will be day trips from Mbitini to Kitui for supplies about once a week and those can cost up to $20 one-way). 

Q: For what length of time should I plan the trip?

A: The minimum suggested trip is two weeks.  When traveling from the US, it will take a minimum of three traveling days until you arrive in Mbitini.  The return trip will be the same so almost one week of your time is spent traveling.  To really feel effective, you will want at least one week to minister.  I have gone for four and five weeks which have been good lengths for me.  The trips were not too short or long and offered satisfied feelings of effectiveness.  I feel that when spending a large amount on airfare that I should be there as long as possible.  Keep in mind that each day you are over there, you will incur expenses.  Medications, lodging, food, and transportation are all expenses that increase with the length of the trip. 

Q: What should I pack or not pack?

A: My first trip to Mbitini I did not take many things that are now on this list!  I learned from my first trip what I needed to bring and this list is now very complete after two trips there.  I have divided it into categories and kept it as gender neutral as possible. 

DURING TRAVEL:

Wisp toothbrushes, book, hand sanitizer, ear plugs, eye mask, watch, compression socks (to reduce swelling), passport and a copy of passport (keep the copy in a separate location), pen (needed to fill out documents), cash for Visa (most likely $50 but prepare for any amount), money pouch (write your name on it in case there are others who have a similar bag as yours), copy of your itinerary (if you do not have a return boarding pass yet when you arrive at the airport you will have to show your itinerary to enter the building)

TOILETRIES:

brush/comb, deodorant, cotton balls, face wash, soap, shampoo, floss, toothbrush, toothpaste, hair ties, lotion, mirror, lip balm, safety pins, razor, sunblock, tissues, wet wipes, nail file, sunglasses, eye drops, contacts, glasses (I take an extra pair)

MEDICATIONS:

anti-diarrheal, anti-itch, aloe vera, bug repelling wipes, bandages, vitamins, anti-malaria pills, pain killers, Airborne, any medications you regularly take, cough drops (these are essential because you will most likely catch a cold)

CLOTHING:

boots, tennis shoes, sandals, flip-flops, dress shoes, socks, underwear, pajamas, shirts, pants/skirts, hat or scarves for head, shorts (wear underneath skirts for long walks), a sweater or light jacket (weather can be cool in August, and you may be cold during travel)

CONTAINERS:

backpack, suitcases, bags, purses, assorted plastic bags, plastic baskets, toiletry case

OTHER:

camera, Bible, pens/pencils/markers/highlighters, twin sheet set, flashlight and batteries, notebooks, combination lock on your suitcases (your carry-on bag may have to be checked on a connecting flight), list of US and Kenya phone numbers (your US phone will probably not work), straws (for drinking from objects that you do not want to put your mouth directly on), memory card (consider the capacity of your camera card), phone charger (charge phone in Nairobi/upon arriving back in the US)

Do NOT pack:

Towels are not practical there.  Instead, purchase a leso upon arrival.

Blankets, pillows, and headphones are in every seat on the flights. 

Immodest clothing—Kenyans are very conservative in dress.  Women in Mbitini always wear dresses/skirts.  In the past pants on women was a sign of prostitution. 

Q: As a female is it all right if I bring make up?

A: Yes, many visitors continue with their typical beauty routines.  The natives do not wear any and they do not need any—their eyelashes are already curled and they look like they are wearing mascara already! 

Q: What time of year is best to go?

A: Going when it is not a rainy season is best because traveling is more difficult in wet conditions.  The winter months in Kenya are July-September, the hottest months are January-March, the short rainy season is October-December, and the long rainy season is April-June. 

Q: Do I need a Visa and how do I get one?

A: Yes, you need a Visa to enter the country.  You can obtain one prior to traveling, however, you must mail your passport to the Kenyan embassy and pay the fee.  This is not recommended.  The easiest way to obtain the Visa is in the airport upon arrival.  You must proceed through a line whether you have a Visa already or not, so you may as well purchase it there.  You will have to fill out papers, show your passport, pay the fee, and you will receive a sticker in your passport.  The single-entry Visa allows you to stay up to 90 days and does not permit you to work. 

Q: Should I take traveler’s cheques, cash, or what kind of currency?

A: To ensure that you get the best possible exchange rate, take one hundred dollar bills that are Series 2002 and higher.  The exchange rate will be less if you take smaller denominations or bills that are Series 2001 and lower.  Also keep in mind that you will get a better exchange rate in Nairobi (a metropolitan area) than in Kitui (a smaller city). 

Q: What supplies should I purchase there instead of packing?

A: You can buy your soap, toilet paper, clothes pins, laundry soap, and dish soap there for the same amount or less than here.  You can buy all your food (bread, jam, rice, flour, sugar, eggs, etc.) basin for shower water, battery powered lantern, antiseptic for bathing water, and mosquito net (if needed) in Nairobi before leaving for Mbitini. 

Q: What things do I need to be able to minister in Mbitini, Kenya?

A: Though there are no requirements or expectations upon those who go to minister, bringing gifts for the orphans (crayons, pencils, paper, jump ropes, watches, cards, etc.) will be happily received, as well as clothing, shoes, toothbrushes, soap, bags of food, dishes, mattresses, money for school fees, medical care, etc.  All of those items can be purchased in Kenya.  You may also want to brush up on kid’s songs and games as the children love to be taught new songs and games! 

Q: What can my family members remaining at home expect?  

A: You should be able to call home at least once a week and you may have occasional access to email.  Leave a copy of your passport with your emergency contacts in the US.  You can register your trip with the US Government through Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) and can enter an emergency contact.  You will receive travel alerts if there are concerns where you are traveling. 

Q: What are the best flights to be on?

A: There are several options for flights and layovers to get to Kenya.  The most popular route among those who have traveled in the past few years is to fly KLM airline (partnered with Delta out of Atlanta) and layover in Amsterdam.  Schiphol Airport is clean, easy to get around, safe, modern, but you will have to go through security before boarding a plane there.  (Trust me on this—there is no way to avoid going through security even if you do not even leave your concourse.  So remember not to bury your bag of liquids after you finish with airport security in America.  The same is true when arriving internationally into Atlanta—you will have to go through security again after you have collected your luggage and before you can get to your connecting flight.)  The best flights to be on are to leave from the US in the afternoon/evening and arrive in Europe in the morning.  After a layover of a few hours, then leaving mid-morning and arriving in Nairobi at night.  On the return trip, try your best to get the evening flight out of Nairobi which arrives the next morning in Amsterdam.  There are other flight schedules but these flights are the best when it comes to sleeping on board and quicker travel time.  If you do have a lengthy layover, try to lay flat or at least elevate your feet.  As you spend a long time traveling without laying your lower legs can swell.  The swelling may not reduce for several days. 

Q: What are the luggage weight limits?

A: According to KLM’s website before I traveled, the limit was 50.5 pounds but when my bags were being checked in, I was told I could have up to 52 pounds.  I would encourage you to thoroughly investigate the weight limit so that you can get the maximum allowable amount.

Q: What happens when I arrive in Nairobi?

A: Prior to landing you will have to fill out documents with all your information and reason for your trip.  You will need your passport and a pen for this.  You can familiarize yourself with Jomo Kenyatta Airport by studying the map in the in-flight magazine.  When you de-plane you will get to the line to buy your Visa and enter the country.  AFTER you pass there, you will head to baggage claim.  Once you have your luggage you will be asked questions by a customs agent and then allowed to proceed out where people wait to pick up their guests.  There are NO pay phones available anywhere at the airport so be sure your pick up arrangements are secure.  I recommend having local phone numbers for those picking you up and name and number of the hotel where you’ll stay so that if something changes you will be prepared.  Whoever picks you up from the airport has to pay a toll and you will be expected to cover the cost of the ride. 

Q: How long will I stay in Nairobi?

A: You will most likely only be in Nairobi for one night.  You will then shop for food, water jugs, and other supplies before leaving. 

Q: How much traveling can I expect while in Kenya?

A: To get from Nairobi to Mbitini, you will ride a bus for about 4-5 hours.  While in Mbitini you may travel around the region.  You can take a 1-hour bus ride to Kitui to shop and change money.  You may also travel by motorbike to nearby churches.  You may want to have a scarf to cover your head and face as you travel because of the dust clouds from the roads. 

Q: What will my accommodations be like?

A: In Nairobi, you will stay in a simple hotel.  The bathroom consists of sink, shower, and flushing toilet.  Most hotels offer a breakfast buffet.  In Mbitini, you may stay in a private home.  You can expect a metal bed frame and mattress with linens and mosquito net, a room with a door that you can lock when you leave, a toilet of some kind, and your shower will be hot water in a basin with a cup. 

Q: What will I be doing day by day?

A: It is very unlikely that you will clean or cook unless you want to or make an effort to do so.  Your hosts will lovingly take care of those things because they want to be hospitable to you.  When you see how much work is involved in doing laundry by hand, you may feel guilty having someone do it for you!  When I had the time, I did my own laundry even though they would watch and tell me I wasn’t getting my clothes clean!  While others tend to the chores, you will be free to minister in other ways—visiting people, shopping for supplies, speaking at churches and schools, playing with orphans, planning for events, etc.  Keep hand sanitizer with you at all times since you will shake hands with everyone you see. 

Q: Will I be able to communicate with locals?

A: Kenyans speak three languages.  They each have a mother tongue that their tribe speaks.  They learn Swahili in school because it is a national language.  And if they go all the way through school they learn English well because high school is taught entirely in English.  Many people will understand English speakers and most will be able to converse with you.  There will be many teenagers and adults who can be translators during your trip. 

Q: What are common food and drinks? 

A: The most common drink is tea, like chai, and they drink it boiling hot.  Coca-Cola is available all over as well as bottled water and juice concentrate.  Be sure that bottles were well-sealed before drinking.  Common foods are ugali, chapati, and rice for starches, all kinds of fresh fruits and vegetables (papaya, banana, avocado, tomato, onion, and potato; greens like kale, cabbage, and spinach), lentils, eggs, and goat meat for protein.  Dairy is uncommon but in some stores you can find drinkable yogurt. 

Q: Will I be able to buy souvenirs?

A: Yes!  You will be able to shop in stores, markets, and from individuals.  Be very careful when you make purchases.  Being unfamiliar with the bills and the normal costs of things, you can very easily hand someone the equivalent of $10 when you meant $1.  I suggest having a native assist you as you pay and verify you give the correct amount and that you receive the correct change.  Keep a list of all purchases and their value because you will have to declare what you bring into the US.  You can list general categories, like “jewelry—$50,” “clothes—$20,” etc.

Q: What is the weekly schedule like?

A: On Sundays at Mbitini Gospel Baptist Church, children come for Sunday school at 9:00 am.  At 10:00 am, several choirs hold practice.  Then at 11:00 am morning service begins and may go for two hours depending on how much is going on.  Expect a full hour of singing by the congregation and choirs.  On Friday, Saturday, and Sunday evenings there are services at the orphanage that consist of singing, a lesson, and prayer requests.  The market day in Mbitini is Saturday.  Weekdays the children go to school and have a tutor after school.  When school is not in session, the children do lots of work—tending to the chickens/goats, fetching water, doing laundry, etc. 

Q: Will I be able to call home?

A: Almost everyone has a cell phone.  Some people have phone plans that can call the US at certain times of the day for about a cent a minute.  These phones use prepaid minutes so you may be able to purchase minutes on someone’s phone to make calls. 

Q: What expenses can I help my hosts with?

A: Meals are cooked either with firewood or using a gas stove.  The gas tank, electricity, and cleaning products (bleach, mops) are all things that you can help pay for.  Your hosts will probably be traveling to pick you up and have hotel costs, too. 

Q: What can I expect when I leave?

A: If natives accompany you to Nairobi and to the airport, they will expect you to cover their expenses of escorting you.  Those costs will include hotel, meals, and taxi rides to the airport.  Have your itinerary out when you arrive at the airport.  If your flights change and you need to contact someone, there is an internet shop inside the airport that accepts American dollars.  Calling the US with a credit card from a plane phone will cost at least $30.  Before landing in the US you will have to declare your purchases.