Tips for Visitors to WOSONOS 2025 in Kenya

Welcome to Nairobi Kenya for the World Open Space on Open Space (WOSONOS) Conference 2025! To help you prepare for your trip and enjoy a smooth experience at Brackenhurst, here are some essential travel tips.

1. Visas & Entry Requirements

Kenya has implemented an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) system for all travelers, replacing the traditional visa requirement. This means that visitors must obtain an eTA prior to their journey to Kenya.

Key Points:

Application Process: All travelers, including infants and children, need an approved eTA before starting their journey. Applications can be submitted up to 90 days prior and must be completed at least 3 days in advance. The eTA fee is approximately $32.50 USD. Proof of accommodation, such as a hotel reservation or an invitation letter if staying with friends, is required. For detailed information and to apply, visit the official eTA portal: https://www.etakenya.go.ke.

etakenya.go.ke
Exemptions: Citizens of East African Community (EAC) partner states (Burundi, Democratic Republic of Congo, Rwanda, South Sudan, Tanzania, and Uganda) are exempt from obtaining an eTA for stays up to six months. Additionally, certain travelers, such as holders of valid Kenyan passports, permanent residents, or specific diplomatic missions, may be exempt. A comprehensive list of exemptions is available on the eTA portal.

kenyaembassydc.org
Important Note: Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay and has at least two blank pages for entry stamps.

For any questions or assistance regarding the eTA application process, you can contact the eTA support team at +254 110-922062 or email etakenya@immigration.go.ke.

Important: Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your travel date and has two blank pages for entry stamps.

2. Packing List for Brackenhurst

November is the short rains in Kenya - expect light showers. In Brackenhurst it at 2,300 m and can be sunny and warm in the day time (79F, 26C), but also cool at night (58F, 15C), misty in the mornings, and occasionally rainy at in the afternoons, so pack accordingly!

Clothing:

Light and warm layers (sweaters, fleeces, or a light jacket)
Rain jacket or poncho
Comfortable walking shoes (Brackenhurst has beautiful trails)
Casual but smart wear
A hat and sunglasses
Cotton shopping bag (Kenya has a zero tolerance of single use plastic including duty free plastic bags)

Essentials:

Umbrella or compact rain gear
Insect repellent (mosquitoes are present, though Brackenhurst is at high altitude)
Sunscreen & lip balm (We are near the equator at high altitude so UV rays can quite strong)
A reusable water bottle (clean drinking water is provided, single use plastic bottles are not permitted in parks)
Power adapter (Kenya uses Type G plugs – same as the UK, 240V)

3. Vaccines & Health Precautions

Before traveling, check with your doctor for recommended vaccines.

Recommended Vaccines & Medications:

Yellow Fever: Required if traveling from an endemic country (carry your Yellow Fever certificate if applicable).
Typhoid & Hepatitis A/B: Recommended for travelers intending to go off the beaten track.
Malaria: Brackenhurst is at high altitude, so malaria risk is low, but if traveling elsewhere in Kenya, consult your doctor about anti-malarial medication.

Medical Services & Travel Insurance:

Emergency medical services are available in Nairobi. Brackenhurst also has basic first aid facilities.
We strongly recommend travel insurance that covers healthcare, trip cancellation, and evacuation.

4. Safety & Security

Kenya is generally safe for visitors, but standard travel precautions apply:

Personal Safety:

Brackenhurst is extremely safe. There is a lock box in each room.

Use registered taxis, uber on the app, or transport arranged by Brackenhurst.
Avoid carrying large amounts of cash – credit cards are widely accepted.
Stay in groups in towns and villages
Do not display valuables openly.
Stick to well-lit areas at night and avoid isolated places and known crime spots.
Avoid public transport

Scams & Fraud:

Only exchange currency at banks or authorized forex bureaus.
Be cautious of overly friendly strangers offering deals or tours.
Be cautious of phone scams

Wildlife & Nature Safety:

If you plan on a safari, always follow the guide’s instructions.
Do not feed or approach wild animals—even in parks.
Kenya has diverse terrain – wear proper shoes and be cautious on hikes.

5. Transport & Getting Around

Airport Transfers:

Book transport from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) through Brackenhurst’s official transport partner.
Travel time from Nairobi to Brackenhurst: ~1 hour (depending on traffic).

Getting to Brackenhurst:

You can also take a taxi or Uber (but confirm pricing before starting the ride).
If staying in Nairobi, Limuru, or Tigoni, arrange for daily transport to and from the venue.

6. Safari & Exploring Kenya

Kenya is one of the world’s most spectacular travel destinations! If you plan to extend your trip, our transport partner can help organize (we encourage you to support local tour companies and guides):
Safari trips to the Maasai Mara, Amboseli, Nakuru, Bogoria, Samburu, or Nairobi National Park
Hiking and climbing adventures in Mount Kenya, Aberdares, Longonot, Hells Gate and the Ngong Hills
Coastal getaways to Diani, Watamu, Malindi or Lamu (all accessible by flights)
Cultural visits to Maasai villages or Nairobi’s museums

7. Currency & Payments

Kenyan Shilling (KES) is the official currency.

Exchange Rate: ~$1 USD = 128 KES (check before travel).
ATMs are available in major towns, but some charge high fees.
Credit/debit cards (Visa/MasterCard) are widely accepted.
Mobile payments (M-Pesa) are common—useful for local transactions. You can quickly get a sim card at any Safaricom shop

Join Us in Kenya

Come be part of this transformative gathering as Open Space returns home to Africa.

Let’s connect, collaborate, and shape the future of Open Space together.

Welcome to WOSONOS 2025!