A guide to Visa Application before a safari

You’ve booked the flights. You’ve bought the safari hat. You’ve mentally packed your binoculars. But then, the panic sets in: "Wait, do I need a visa? Is it an e-Visa? What on earth is an eTA?"

We get it. Bureaucracy is the least exciting part of travel. But getting it wrong can mean being turned away at the airport before your adventure even begins. The landscape of entry requirements in East Africa has shifted dramatically in the last year, especially with Kenya's move to a "Visa-Free" (but not paperwork-free) system.

At Rhino Trek Expeditions, we want your journey to be seamless from the moment you leave home. This guide breaks down exactly what you need to enter Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, and Rwanda.

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1. The Big Change: Kenya’s Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA)

In January 2024, Kenya made headlines by becoming a "Visa-Free" country. However, this is slightly misleading. While traditional visas were scrapped, they were replaced by the eTA (Electronic Travel Authorisation).

Here is the crucial part: The eTA is mandatory for everyone. This includes infants and children who previously didn't need visas. If you are breathing and entering Kenya, you need an eTA.

Key eTA Facts:

• Cost: Approximately $30 USD per person.
• Validity: Single entry only. It is valid for travel within 90 days of issuance.
• Processing Time: Usually 3 working days (72 hours), but we recommend applying at least 7 days in advance.
• Where to Apply: ONLY use the official government portal: www.etakenya.go.ke. Avoid third-party sites that charge exorbitant fees.

"Do not wait until you are at the airport. Airlines will not let you board without an approved eTA QR code on your phone or printed out."

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2. The "Golden Ticket": East Africa Tourist Visa (EATV)

Are you planning a multi-country circuit? Perhaps gorilla trekking in Uganda followed by a relaxing beach stay in Mombasa?

The East Africa Tourist Visa is your best friend. For $100 USD, this joint visa grants you multiple entries into Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda for 90 days.

The Catch:

You must apply for the EATV through the country you enter first.
Example: If you fly into Nairobi first, apply for the EATV via the Kenyan portal. If you land in Entebbe, apply via Uganda.

Note: Tanzania is NOT part of this agreement. You always need a separate visa for Tanzania.

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3. Tanzania: The Classic e-Visa

Tanzania (home of the Serengeti and Kilimanjaro) operates a standard e-Visa system. Unlike Kenya's eTA, this is a traditional visa.

• Cost: $100 USD for US Citizens (Multiple Entry required), $50 USD for most other nationalities (Single Entry).
• Processing Time: Can take up to 10 days. Apply early!
• Zanzibar: Zanzibar is part of Tanzania. Your Tanzania visa covers you for Zanzibar, but you will pass through immigration control upon landing on the island.

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4. The Application Checklist

Before you sit down at your computer, ensure you have these digital files ready. The systems time out quickly, and having documents prepared saves hours of frustration.

5. Common Mistakes to Avoid

Typing Errors: Double-check your passport number. A single digit error means you will be denied entry and have to pay again.

The "middle name" trap: If your passport has a middle name, include it in the application. The names must match exactly.

Applying too early: Kenya's eTA is only valid for travel within 90 days of issuance. Don't apply 6 months out.

We Are Here to Help

While we cannot fill out the government forms for you (due to legal reasons involving personal data), Rhino Trek Expeditions provides full support to our clients.

When you book a safari with us, you receive:

• A detailed itinerary letter required for the "Accommodation" section of the application.
• Direct links to the correct government portals.
• 24/7 advice via WhatsApp if you get stuck on a question.

Don't let the paperwork scare you. The lions, the landscapes, and the luxury of the African bush are worth every second of admin. Get your eTA sorted, pack your bags, and let us handle the rest.