Kenya Food & Drinks
Food
It is hard to describe cuisine in Kenya as simply “Kenyan” since each region has its own distinct flavours and dishes. Communities within Kenya have different menus that reflect the different regions and livelihoods. Despite this, some dishes made in Kenya reflect Indian, Arab and European influences. Swahili dishes tend to use a combination of ginger, chilli, coconut, cream, lime, and crushed tamarind seeds. The people of Kenya like to use locally sourced ingredients and tend to barbecue meat, especially beef and goat.
Popular dishes include:
Githeri: This dish is a mixture of boiled maize and beans. It is a popular dish in the Central Province among the Kikuyu community.
Kachumbari: This consists of a mixture of chopped tomatoes, onions, and peppers. An uncooked salad dish, it is usually paired with Nyama Choma (roasted meat - usually beef).
Ugali: This dish is made up of ground maize flour and water that is boiled in water until it reaches a dough-like consistency. Ugali is usually rolled into a ball and then dipped into a sauce or stew made with vegetables and meat. It is used as a scoop in the same way that flatbreads are used in other cultures. This is a favourite meal, particularly with the Luos in Nyanza Province, but is enjoyed throughout Kenya.
Fish, cooked in a variety of ways, is also quite popular in the Nyanza Province due to its location near Lake Victoria and the Indian Ocean coast.
Drink
Coffee and tea are of excellent quality in Kenya due to the ideal growing climate. Kenyan coffee is world-renowned and is one of the country’s main exports. With tropical fruits like mangoes, watermelon, pineapple, and papaya among others readily available, fresh fruit juices are incredibly popular throughout the country. Coca-Cola is the nation’s most popular soft drink company and soft drinks are widely available. Tusker and White Cap are popular beers with premium and export versions available. While in Kenya, it is advisable to avoid tap water. Bottled water is best and is relatively inexpensive.
Things to Know:
Tipping is optional, however, most hotels and restaurants include a 10-15% service charge. If a service charge is not added, then a small tip is greatly appreciated. It is considered customary to tip porters and safari guides.
Drinking age:
You must be 18 years old to purchase alcohol.
Kenya Travel Information
At Goway we believe that a well-informed traveller is a safer traveller. With this in mind, we have compiled an easy-to-navigate travel information section dedicated to Kenya.
Learn about the history and culture of Kenya, the must-try food and drink, and what to pack in your suitcase. Read about Kenya's nature and wildlife, weather, and geography, along with 'Country Quickfacts' compiled by our travel experts. Our globetrotting tips, as well as our visa and health information, will help ensure you're properly prepared for a safe and enjoyable trip. The only way you could possibly learn more is by embarking on your journey and discovering Kenya for yourself. Start exploring… book one of our Kenya safaris today!
Extend Your Trip
After your African Safari, why not consider one of Goway's Europe tours or Egypt tours en route from Kenya or perhaps a stopover in Dubai on one of our United Arab Emirates tours
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