Best Cities For Expats In Africa part 2 – Part one is here.

10 Best Tourists Attractions to Visit in Africa

Africa is one of the most diverse continents in the world. It’s home to some major natural attractions like Victoria Falls and many cultural highlights. That being said, let us have a look at the greatest tourist attractions in Africa.

1)    The Pyramids of Giza, Egypt

Topping the list of best tourist attractions to visit in Africa is the Great Pyramid of Giza, located in Egypt. This is considered one of man’s greatest marvels and a must-see for anyone visiting Africa. It was built 4,500 years ago during a period that lasted 20 years involving 100,000 men. The pyramid rises at 481 ft (146 m) high, with a base covering 13 acres. Every year, about four million tourists visit this attraction.

2)    Victoria in Seychelles

This is the largest island of Seychelles and covers 86 sq km. It’s about 400 km away from Africa’s east coast, making it one of the best tourist attractions to visit in Africa. Tourists can opt to stay in any of its exclusive resorts in bungalows with a pool and rich vegetation in a secluded bay. Other tourist attractions to visit in Africa include the botanical garden, catamaran trip around the island, and diving.

3)    Table Mountain in Cape Town, South Africa

Table Mountain is one of South Africa’s most beautiful scenic spots that feature an almost flat tablet-shaped mountain whose granite core rises to 3,554 ft (1,085 m) above sea level. The mountain’s flat top has an area covering 57 sq mi (150 km2).

It is famous for the flat-topped Table Mountain, which served as a significant landmark when ships were in the Cape Town harbor. It can be seen almost everywhere in Cape Town and is one of the most popular tourist attractions to visit in Africa.

4)    Tsingy de Bemaraha Strict Nature Reserve in Madagascar

The limestone formations found here are like a maze, making it difficult for visitors to see beyond them. There is an area where there are many deep caverns and caves. While there, visitors can take a bath in its hot spring waters or see the rare birds that have their own natural habitat here.

5)    The Serengeti National Park in Tanzania

This is one of the best tourist attractions to visit in Africa because it’s home to thousands of animals, especially elephants, lions, zebras, hippos, and giraffes. Tourists can visit the Serengeti in different seasons when there are different animals in various places around the park.

6)    Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania

This is a dormant volcano rising to a height of 19,341 ft (5,895 m) above sea level with a base covering an area of 189 sq mi (490 km2). Mount Kilimanjaro is Africa’s highest peak and has been named one of the 7 New Wonders of the World and one of the top 10 tourist attractions to visit in Africa.

7)    Ngorongoro Crater in Tanzania

This is a vast extinct volcano covering 8,000 acres (32 km2). The crater walls have a number of animals that can be seen as they graze or hunt for food. On the crater floor, many animals can be seen while on safari. Visitors will definitely enjoy exploring this tourist attraction to visit in Africa.

8)    Visiting a Maasai village in Kenya

In the past, there have been conflicts between the Maasai tribe and tourists because some tribesmen were not educated on how to treat a tourist.

However, some tribesmen have learned the value of tourism in their community and are working hand in hand with tour operators in ensuring that tourists have a great time. There are many Maasai tribes in Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda which offer tourists to visit them so they can see how these people live.

9)    Luxor Temple in Luxor, Egypt

This is one of the oldest temples in Egypt, which was built over 3,000 years ago by Amenhotep III. This temple has been added to the UNESCO World Heritage Site list and features many ancient Egyptian artefacts, including statues of pharaohs and many other things. There are also substantial black-granite statues of the pharaoh Ramses II which stand 66 ft (20 m) tall and weigh 1,200 tons each.

10) Sultan Ahmed Mosque in Istanbul, Turkey

This is a very large complex featuring a mosque, two minarets, and eight different domes with beautiful blue tiles, which can be seen from other areas in the city. Visitors will definitely enjoy exploring the many rooms that this mosque has, which includes a library containing 12,000 manuscripts. It also features a room for women with a fountain used to wash before praying.

Frequently Asked Questions about Living in Africa

What will I need to prepare to live in Africa?

Africa is different than where you are now. Prepare yourself for these differences to avoid culture shock. Ask yourself what you will need to prepare before moving here, such as food, clothes, money, assets (obvious things like that).

What language do people speak in Africa?

There are many different languages spoken in Africa, depending on the area you move to. If you want to avoid being confused by people talking around you, learn a few words of their language. Even knowing a few numbers or hand gestures will give you a better chance at communicating with them.

How do I contact 911 in case of emergencies?

It is important to know how to call the authorities in an emergency, whether fire, medical, or police. Make sure you know how it works in Africa if you want help quickly when needed.

Conclusion

Living in Africa has its pros and cons. It may be one of the most beautiful places on Earth, but it can also be dangerous. This way, you should always consider their surroundings carefully before moving to the continent. Nonetheless, refer to this platform for more information regarding the cost of living in Africa and others.

Best Cities For Expats In Africa part 1 – that will be the topic of today’s article.

Before introducing this article, if you are interested in our core services which are expat financial, insurance and mortgages, you can contact me here. 

The best time to consider your financial situation is when you are moving to a new country.

Introduction

Africa is one of the largest continents in the World and has a very long history. For thousands of years, cultures have been coming and going, leaving their own unique impacts on the land. The diversity that exists today across Africa results from this long history, making it a hotspot for adventure seekers who want to make a difference in a new land.

With the continent’s long history of empires, expanding trade routes, and wars, it’s not surprising that there are many different cultures across Africa today. However, not all countries in Africa are equally welcoming to expats looking for a new home.

To know which African cities will provide you with an opportunity to experience all of the cultures on offer in this big continent, take a look at our expat guide to the best cities for expats in Africa. One of the key criteria used when choosing which countries and cities would be included in this list.

According to many publications, Africa is one of the regions where the number of expats is particularly low. This means that many destinations on this list will be very different from the ones you live in now and may require a bit more research to get used to.

Today, we have compiled this article to meet your needs. If you’ve been surfing the internet to get the right information about the best cities for expats in Africa, look no further. Aside from this fact, we will walk you through the interesting facts about living in Africa as an expat. Read further to get the full details.

Interesting Facts about Living in Africa

Living in Africa can be an extraordinary experience. If you’re planning to come out here for travel or work, here are the top 8 most interesting facts about living in Africa that everyone should know.

Transportation Is Cheap and Readily Available

Public transport like bus and train systems are extremely good (in some countries), making it incredibly easy to get around. Anyone interested in seeing the entire country by bus or train will get their wish, as long as they are willing to spend some time on the road!

Conversely, owning a vehicle is incredibly cheap. For example, if you wanted to buy a decent-sized car in South Africa, the chances are that it would only cost about 8 000 USD, which is on par with buying a car in the states. Even if you wanted to repurchase a small hatch, it would still only cost about 3 000 USD.

Transportation costs are also low compared to western values; for example, getting around by taxi will only cost about $1 0 per trip on local trips and maybe $4 on longer trips.

No Real Health Concerns

Africa is a very healthy continent overall, but there are some risks like malaria and bilharzia (found in some parts of the Nile River). However, these risks can be managed by taking precautions like sleeping under mosquito nets, wearing long sleeves, and using mosquito repellent.

People Are Incredibly Friendly

Africans are also very friendly people who will go out of their way to help you if they see that you’re in need. This is especially true if it’s something small like taxi directions or advice. I’ve never once been refused help by a local person.

In addition to this, if you’re out drinking with Africans, they will buy rounds of drinks for everyone in the bar without hesitation.

High Chance of Seeing Wild Life

Africa is also one of the best places to see animals in their natural habitat in all their glory. For example, in South Africa, there are numerous safari opportunities to see lions, elephants, leopards, and even rhinos. These experiences will be a memory to last a lifetime!

The Food Is Delicious

I have yet to meet a cuisine I didn’t like in Africa so far! African cooking varies from place to place, but some mainstays are pretty common. One of these is Ugali, which I would describe as the African version of mashed potatoes mixed with flour and salt, which can be eaten plain or rolled up into small balls to pick up sauces.

It’s definitely an interesting taste, but you get used to it very quickly! For me, it tastes quite mild compared to the spices and chilis that are used in cooking. Another staple is ‘fufu,’ which is also made from flour, but instead of being cooked like a dumpling, it’s soaked in water to form a doughy ball.

It doesn’t have much taste on its own, so if you’re looking for something bland, then fufu is perfect. If you ever come to South Africa, I would recommend checking out the famous bunny chow! This is a hollowed-out loaf of bread filled with curry and can be found in most townships across the country.

It might seem like an odd thing, but it’s incredibly delicious! A national dish of South Africa is ‘bobotie,’ a dish made from spiced mince, and it’s delicious too.

The Weather Isn’t Bad

Depending on where you are in Africa, the weather can be quite mild. For example, South Africa has four main seasons, but it’s never too cold or hot. If anything, it’s usually too wet or dry! However, for those who love snow, then there is always skiing nearby (in places like Lesotho and Swaziland), just a few hours away from Cape Town.

Great Place to Make Friends

By living in Africa for a year, I have made some amazing friends worldwide who will be friends for life. This is because many people come here on gap years, internships, or even visits when they are younger, and it’s an amazing way to meet new and interesting people.

There Is Always Something Happening

Africa is an incredibly fast-paced continent where there are always things going on. Whether it’s a festival in the Tanzanian islands, a sports match in Cape Town, or even just watching locals party out in the township; there will always be something to do.

14 Best Cities for Expats in Africa

Many people worldwide dream of living and working abroad, but not everyone dares actually to move. If you’re looking for a new home and want to explore Africa, we’ve rounded up some of the best places for expats in Africa.

1.    Nairobi

Population: Over 3 million Locations: Eastern Africa, south of Somalia, north of Tanzania

Nairobi is the capital city of Kenya. It’s a world-class metropolis with all the necessary amenities to make life comfortable for expats. Nairobi has everything you need, from international schools to shopping malls, and being so close to nature makes it an ideal place to live in Africa.

2.    Kigali

Population: Over One million Locations: Central Africa, Rwanda

Kigali is the capital of Rwanda. It’s a fast-growing city known for its safe streets and stable economy. Expats who live in Kigali tend to praise the security it offers as well as the low cost of living—the average rent for a two-bedroom apartment is $650/month.

3.    Dar es Salaam

Population: Over 4.3 million Locations: Eastern Africa, Tanzania

Dar es Salaam is the largest city in Tanzania, and it’s known for its high crime rate, so this might not be the best choice if you’re looking to live somewhere safe. However, there are some good reasons to move here. The Tanzanian government is trying to improve the city by building new infrastructure and offering more tourism attractions, so it’s definitely worth considering if you want to live in Africa.

4.    Cairo

Population: Over 16 million Locations: Northern Africa, Egypt

Even though Cairo is pretty hot and crowded, there are still some opportunities for expats here. If you’re a business professional who wants to take their career to the next level and explore new things, this might be an ideal place for you. Plus, there are several universities within the city to continue your education.

5.    Windhoek

Population: Over 300,000 Locations: Southern Africa, Namibia

Windhoek is the capital of Namibia—a place known for its wide-open spaces and desert landscapes. Expats here enjoy living in a city that still feels like a small town. Windhoek has an international airport and a developing tourism industry, so it’s a good place if you want to explore Africa while still being comfortable.

6.    Accra

Population: Over 2 million Locations: West Africa, Ghana

The capital of Ghana is known for its high crime rate and traffic congestion, but it’s also a great city if you’re looking to do some volunteer work. Expats here really like the fact that there are several bars and nightclubs, but be careful because fights can break out frequently (or there could be a kidnapping if you’re walking on your own late at night).

7.    Kampala

Population: Over 2 million Locations: East Africa, Uganda

If you love to travel and want to experience different cultures, Kampala might be your best bet as one of the top cities for expats in Africa. Living here is pretty cheap, but you have to be careful with the crime. There are certain areas where expats tend to avoid going after dark, making life a bit difficult at times.

8.    Lagos

Population: Over 22 million Locations: West Africa, Nigeria

Lagos is known as one of the most densely populated cities in the world, so it might not be the best choice if you’re looking to escape from a big city lifestyle. Expats here praise Lagos for its rich culture and vibrant nightlife, but at the same time, they complain about how many people are trying to scam them.

9.    Cape Town

Population: Over 4 million Locations: Southern Africa, South Africa

Living in Cape Town is not for everyone because it’s known as one of the most expensive cities in Africa, so you might have trouble making friends if you don’t have a big salary. That being said, it’s not hard to find job opportunities here because the economy is doing so well. The city also has a lot of great beaches and hiking trails if you’re looking to get some fresh air.

10. Windhoek

Population: Over 300,000 Locations: Southern Africa, Namibia

Windhoek is the capital of Namibia—a place known for its wide-open spaces and desert landscapes. Expats here enjoy living in a city that still feels like a small town. Windhoek has an international airport and a developing tourism industry, so it’s a good place if you want to explore Africa while still being comfortable.

11. Addis Ababa

Population: Over 3 million Locations: East Africa, Ethiopia

If you’re looking for an exciting place where you can make a difference and help others, Addis Ababa might be the right choice. Expats here value the beauty of the Ethiopian culture and their experiences learning new languages (many locals speak at least three different languages). There aren’t many bars or nightclubs, but there are several malls and things to do if you’re looking for an entertaining night out.

12. Algiers

Population: Over 3 million Locations: Northern Africa, Algeria

If you want to live in North Africa but don’t like Morocco (Algiers is right next door), the city of Algiers might be a good choice. Expats praise how easy it is to travel to other places around the continent from here because there are often cheap flights from Algiers. It’s a pretty safe city too, but the only downside is that it can get boring at times.

13. Asmara

Population: Over 600,000 Locations: East Africa, Eritrea

If you want to live in Africa but are looking for a different experience than other expats, Asmara might be the best choice. It’s known as one of the safest cities on the continent, and there are also many job opportunities for expats who have the right skills.

14. Lusaka

Population: Over 1 million Locations: Southern Africa, Zambia

Living in Lusaka is pretty cheap, and the city has a vibrant culture, so it could be a good choice if you want to experience living in Africa without spending too much money. Expats here complain about how often they get sick because the roads can be poorly maintained and there is a lot of air pollution.

Before introducing this article, if you are interested in our core services which are expat financial, insurance and mortgages, you can contact me here. 

The best time to consider your financial situation is when you are moving to a new country.

Introduction

For many expats, Kenya has everything to enjoy in East Africa. With a combination of mountains, well-structured cities, shorelines, and transportation networks, the benefits of living in Kenya cannot be overemphasized. It’s a medium-sized country with a large population and is home to ethnic communities.

If you’re considering a move to Kenya, there are many things to figure out. Sorting out visa requirements, understanding the process of living, finding a job, opening a bank account, and many others are some of the important considerations for anyone looking to relocate to Kenya as of today.

Bordered by the Indian Ocean, Kenya is an East African country that has attracted many foreigners over the years. Its economy greatly relies on transports, teaching, communication, and trade, which are some of the best promising fields for expat seeking employment in the country.

Having said that, you need to look beyond the African mindset and focus on why you want to reside in this country. In fact, it is generally a politically stable country with a Western-friendly government and manageable infrastructure. Have you been surfing the internet to get the right tips about this country?

Of course, you’d have seen several blog posts about Kenya. But are you sure they’re giving you the right information or tips? Not to worry about wrong information! In this article, we will walk you through everything needed to know about living in Kenya as an expat. Would you love to check? Continue reading.

5 Facts about Kenyan Culture

If you’re planning to relocate to any African country, it’s quite essential to know a bit about their culture. While Kenyans are used to seeing tourists and speak English as one of their official languages, they have unique customs and traditions you should know. Without further ado, below are the facts.

1.    Kenyans Thrive on Community Cooperation

This is one thing that’s common in African, particularly in Kenya. In fact, you’ll rarely see Kenyans isolating themselves, especially when times are tough. But, you’ll see them with their community members trying to solve problems together or find a solution.

More so, sharing responsibilities such as farming, herding, and forming political agendas contributes to their success. Besides, no one is left behind when they need collaboration or joint decision-making. If you’re visiting Kenya, then you need to immerse yourself in the spirit of group cooperation and mutual responsibility.

2.    Tardiness and African Time

Unless you’re meeting a new client or an important call, don’t expect Kenyans to be very close about the time. In fact, we can tell you that times are more casual in Kenya. In that case, if you plan to meet a friend for lunch, don’t get mad if he/she comes to arrive late. Also, don’t expect an apology either because it’s their norm.

However, the only thing you can rely on is a perfectly timed Kenya safari or anything that involves a formal timeframe. Meanwhile, in some parts of the country, it is considered rude to show up late, especially with no call. That’s why you need to understand the African time when you live in Kenya.

3.    Kenyan Respect Their Ancestors

For the fact that the ancestors have existed for decades, the Kenyans still show respect and remember them. They continue to include their past loved ones in talks while they remember their impact. In Kenya culture, as well as in most African countries, you’ll see that ancestors still exist in terms of sculpture.

Some are even stuck in limbo, while they know they are not in this world but are part of them. Trapped in-between an afterlife, Kenyans believe that their ancestors are closed to God. This way, they ask for ancestral guidance by displaying worship and respect through prayers and sacrifice.

4.    Know the Proper Dining Etiquette

Always have it in mind that dining is a formal affair in the country. So, when eating with Kenyan people, it is quite essential to know the proper table manners, as not to offend your hosts. However, refusing food is a major insult to the local’s personality. So, always show respect by accepting food from your host.

In addition, if it’s a special occasion, the guest of honor will have an assigned seat. You might even be given a space, otherwise, sit anywhere you like. In general, you need to wait for instructions before jumping to anything they offer you in Kenya.

5.    Communication is Indirect and Useful

In all ramifications, communication is one thing that you need. As a foreigner, it might seem odd that Kenyans use metaphors and analogies to get the point across instead of bluntly calling someone a liar. This is one thing to you need to know.

Aside from that, if someone wants to be openly critical or show anger about something, they try to do that in private. This way, yelling is not seen very often. Even though English is spoken throughout the country, it’s still good to learn the basics of Swahili to understand further the way Kenyans communicate.

Best Places to Live In Kenya as an Expat

Undoubtedly, Kenya is a beautiful nation with spectacular scenery, amazing wildlife, and friendly locals. This country is renowned for the popular wildebeest migration, outdoor activities, and many other things, to mention a few. In this section, we have compiled some of the best places to live as an expat. Without further ado, take a look at it below.

Nairobi

Of course, Nairobi is the country’s capital city known worldwide for being the only city with a national park. Far from that, it is the country’s political hub and administrative control session. The standards of living in Nairobi vary a lot, and you’ll certainly enjoy living in this city as an expat.

There are many reasons to stay in Nairobi today. For one, it could as a result of the good weather condition, beautiful people, national parks, and the best-known karura Forest. Others might prefer to stay in Nairobi because of the social amenities and range of public and private schools.

Nakuru

This is another place to take into consideration as an expat. It is known as a fast-growing town in Kenya, which incidentally attained city status. We can even tell you that it’s one of the top 5 cities in Kenya. Nakuru is also a country that’s a part of and formerly the headquarters of the Rift valley Province.

The cost of living in Nakuru is pretty low compared to Nairobi. Housing and accommodations are affordable, and they vary, depending on your budget and what you want. Some of the things you’ll enjoy while living in this city include shopping, visiting top international schools, and more.

Diani

This wonderful city lies 45 minutes South of Mombasa, which is a sparkling jewel of Kenya’s mesmerizing coastal life. According to history, it was a fishing settlement meant for the locals, mainly fishermen, and subsistence farmers, who led a quiet life in this city. And as of today, this town has about 100,000 inhabitants.

The cost of living also makes it perfect for both the locals and expat looking to relocate to Kenya. However, the town’s cost of living is expensive in some areas, particularly because it is a holiday destination. With that being said, you should plan to spend an average of KES. 5,700 daily if you’re planning for a vacation in this country.

Mombasa

This city holds a ton of scenic beauties, including beaches, fantastic outdoor activities, and incredible hotels. Not only is that, but it is the perfect place to start life if you were to consider it as your next destination. Research disclosed that it has a population of about 1,208,33 people and its metropolitan region is the second-largest in the country.

Moreover, the cost of living varies depending on various estates and the kind of lifestyle you choose. Meanwhile, the middle-class persons mainly live in Mbaraki, Kizingo, Changamwe, among others. This city is home to a lot of resort places and museums dating far back as to the Portuguese and the Omani empires.

Eldoret

Eldoret has also made it to the list of cities to relocate to when you’re moving to this country for the first time. Known as the home of athletic champions, this city is a bubbling industrial with rich agro-resources and diverse culture. The cost of living in Eldoret is relatively cheaper compared to what you’ll expect in Nairobi or Mombasa.

Moreover, it is an excellent destination for athletic enthusiasts, and its home to the high Altitude training center for athletes. As of today, the town has a population of about 480,000 people. Some of the best estates to live in Eldoret include; huruma estate, Pioneer estate, Elgon view estate, and many others.

Naivasha

This is a beautiful town in Nakuru Country that recently hosted the World Rally Championship (WRC) Safari Rally 2021 Edition. Not only is that, but known today as one of the best horticultural urban centers in the country. According to history, the name originates from the Maasi word Nai’posha which means rough water.

However, the cost of living in this city is quite affordable. And people looking to buy vacation homes around the lake can visit this place. Also, food prices are quite low due to the proximity of the agricultural-rich County in this town. In fact, it could serve as an excellent destination for a holiday compared to Nakuru.

Kisumu

Kisumu, apart from being the third-largest city in the country, is popularly known for being Barack Obama Snr. Hometown. In addition, it was once known as Port Florence, and it served as a commercial port connecting Uganda, Nairobi, and Port Bell together. It officially became a city in 1996, and it currently has a population of about 400,000.

10 Interesting Facts about Living in Kenya

I’m sure you know that Kenya is home to have one of the world’s leading safari destinations. Have you recently decided that you’re going to join the African community? Well, you need to know most of the things that make this country so captivating. Without further ado, below are the interesting facts.

1.    Coffee Is the Biggest Export

Do you know that coffee is one of the biggest exports in this country? Interestingly enough, Kenyans mostly drink tea over coffee because it grows so well in the country. Also, coffee from Kenya is similar to Colombian mild, making Kenyan coffee one of the most sought out coffees in the world.

2.    Home to Maasai People

The Maasai people are a group of indigenous people who have lived in the National Reserve, Maasai Mara, since inception. These folks are known for their jumping dance and warrior skills. They occupy a land area of almost 100,000 square miles, while their estimated population in the country is about 500,000. This group is seminomadic, although results disclosed that they are reasonably dependent on the market economy.

3.    Home to a Car-free Island

This island is home to Lamu Old Town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Kenya’s oldest constantly occupied settlement. This place has its origin dated back all way back to the 12^th century. To get around in Lamu Town, residents will walk, use donkeys, or take a boat to transport items. Meanwhile, cars are banned for the general public, and there aren’t roads that can even accommodate vehicles.

4.    Named After a Mountain

This country is named after a mountain, and it’s one of the things you need to know about Kenya. In fact, before the arrival of European colonists in the late 19^th century, this land was just a part of a larger region that’s simply called East Africa in the country. Also, no one is sure what Kenya was called before colonization, and the name is relatively new.

5.    Kenya Has 2 Official Language

If you’re just hearing this for the first time, you don’t have to worry, as the information is right. The two main languages of Kenya are Swahili and English. Both of these make sense, considering the African location and the British colonization. So, if you don’t understand English, you can still learn Swahili to communicate better in the country.

6.    Home to Famous Migration

There’s more to Kenya wildlife than just the big five, you know. In addition, Kenya is home to the largest overland migration in the world, aptly called the great Migration. This famous migration involves over 1.5 million wildebeest and 200,000 zebras. During each migration, the animals travel a total of at least 800 kilometers.

7.    Kenya Have Won Many Olympics

To date, we can tell you that Kenya has ever won a medal in a winter sport at the Olympics. However, the athletes have won over 100 medals, mostly on notable sports events. However, between the summer Olympics of 2008, 2012, and 2016, Kenya has earned 42 medals, almost half of the total medals won.

8.    Very Poor or Very Rich Segment

Certainly, you might be confused about this fact, but the truth is Kenya people are either very rich or very poor. This means, in Kenya, very few people can be classified as middle-class. So, it takes your hard work to describe you as being rich or poor during your stay in the country.

9.    Flower Garden of Europe

Well, let’s put it this way! There’d be no valentine’s day without Kenya. Meanwhile, if you receive a stunning, deep-red, fragrant bouquet of roses on valentine’s day, the chances are that they made it to your doorstep via a direct flight from Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport. So, have it in mind that Kenya is the third-largest producer of roses in the entire world.

10. A Paradise of a Thousand Birds

Have you ever thought you’ve seen the whole bird in the world? Of course, that would be wrong if you think so. Research made it known that Kenya is home to 1,132 species of birds. In less than 24 hours, 342 of those can be seen in one park, an official world record that Kenya set for the most significant number of bird species spotted in the country every day. What’s more, as over half of these birds can be found in Nairobi alone.

Pros and Cons of Living in Kenya

There’s so much to write about the pros and cons of living in Kenya. Expats moving to this country are surely in for a substantial measure of advantages, including friendly people, wonderful climate and many accessible gateways. Without further ado, below are the pros and cons of living in Kenya.

●        Good Weather Condition

Good weather condition is one of the first things you’ll enjoy while living in Africa countries. Regions, especially around Nairobi, have a gentle climate all year round. More so, the regions have brighter days and cooler evenings. Therefore, if you want to enjoy a warm climate, you can head on to Mombasa.

●        Enjoyable Social Life for Expatriates

This is one of the reasons why Kenya became a popular tourist destination for people around the world. This is because; they offer loads of cafes, restaurants, and bars with a vibrant social scene, especially in Nairobi. Also, numerous expats end up settling here because they come to adore the country, especially within Nakuru, Mombasa, and Nairobi.

●        Reasonable Expenditure

The general expenditure in Nairobi is reasonable. Today, you can buy anything you want at a low price in any of the shopping centers compared to other American countries. Most especially, agriculture being the country’s backbone, has played a major role in terms of revenue and the cost of goods in Kenya.

●        Financial Discipline

Just because of life in Kenya is not always easy, you might get forced to understand the meaning of financial discipline. One develops monetary control and a certain vision and wisdom is that you’ll be able to manage your fund.

Cons

●        Bribery and Corruption

As in many other African countries, corruption is one thing you’ll never want to avoid. In fact, numerous authorities will demand bribes to get things done fast in the country. So, this is one of the first things you need to consider as an expat, relocating to Kenya for the first time.

●        Safety and Security Problem

This has also contributed to some of the advantages of living in Kenya as an expat. Security is one major problem you might experience. With episodes of carjacking and burglary being common, you need to be careful when going out to visit friends and family. Moreover, most theft victims are middle-class or unfortunate Kenyans.

●        Poorly Constructed Roads

Hazardous driving conditions might weigh you down while living in this country. Therefore, you need to prepare for the negative impact it may cause in the long run. Although traffic accidents are not uncommon but expats relocating to Kenya are better off hiring local drivers who can better maneuver around the dangers than driving themselves.

Frequently Asked Questions about Living in Kenya

What is not allowed in Kenya?

If you follow the article or read it carefully, you’ll know the right answer to this question. However, knives and hunting weapons are not allowed in Kenya. Not only is that, but plants and plants products are prohibited except you have a relevant written permit.

Is smoking illegal in Kenya?

Well, smoking in any public place is prohibited throughout the country, except in designated smoking areas. Meanwhile, offenders in Kenya can face a fine or imprisonment for this reason. Moreover, it is illegal to destroy Kenyan currency, and homosexual activity is illegal.

Is Kenya a poor country?

While Kenya’s economy is the largest and most developed in eastern and central Africa, results disclosed that about 36.1 percent of its population lives below the international poverty line. Not only is that, but this severe poverty is mainly caused by economic inequality, government corruption, and health problems

How wealthy is Kenya today?

As of today, Credit Suisse’s 12^th edition of the Global Wealth Report, Kenya is the fourth in Africa with the highest concentration of wealthy individuals whose total wealth is estimated at ($338billion). This way, you should know that Kenya is among the top countries in Africa to visit.

Conclusion

Moving to Kenya is one of the best decisions you’ve ever made. If you’ve never been to Africa, the outdoor activities and incredible things to do here will never leave you saying WOW. Nonetheless, refer to this ultimate guide and read it careful to know more about living in Kenya as an expat.