Kenya is a diverse country with more than 40 ethnic groups, rich traditions, and strong cultural values. Visitors are always warmly welcomed, but understanding local customs will help you connect with people and show respect.
Knowing what to do — and what to avoid — will make your experience in Kenya more enjoyable.
Greeting and Communication
Greetings are very important in Kenyan culture. A simple handshake with a smile is the most common way to greet people. In some communities, handshakes may last longer than usual, and in rural areas, people might hold hands while talking as a sign of friendship.
Using polite words like “Jambo” (hello) and “Asante” (thank you) in Swahili can leave a positive impression.
When greeting elders, it’s respectful to use both hands in a handshake or slightly bow your head. If someone greets you, it’s considered rude not to respond.
Avoid raising your voice or speaking aggressively, as calm and respectful communication is highly valued.
Dress Code and Modesty
In cities like Nairobi and Mombasa, people dress in modern and fashionable clothing. However, in rural areas and religious sites, dressing modestly is important.
Women should avoid short skirts or revealing tops in traditional villages, while men should avoid walking around shirtless.
If visiting a mosque or religious site, women may be required to cover their heads with a scarf, and both men and women should wear long-sleeved clothes. At the coast, bikinis are fine on the beach, but covering up when leaving the beach is appreciated.
Respect for Local Customs
Kenyan culture places great importance on respect for elders. If you are introduced to an older person, greet them first. In some communities, it’s polite to slightly bow or lower your gaze when speaking to an elder.
Taking photos of people without asking is considered disrespectful, especially in rural areas or Maasai villages. Always ask for permission before taking pictures, and respect their decision if they decline.
Food and Dining Etiquette
Kenyan meals are often shared, and hospitality is a key part of the culture. If invited for a meal, it’s polite to wash your hands before eating, as many traditional dishes are eaten with hands rather than utensils.
Avoid wasting food, as it can be seen as disrespectful. If you are full, you can politely say so, but refusing food completely may be considered rude. When drinking tea or coffee in a home, it’s common to accept at least one cup as a sign of appreciation.
Public Behavior and Taboos
Public displays of affection, such as hugging or kissing in public, are not common in Kenya, especially in rural areas. Holding hands is acceptable, even between friends of the same gender, but excessive affection in public can make people uncomfortable.
Pointing with a finger is considered impolite — if you need to indicate something, use your whole hand instead. Kenyans also appreciate patience and politeness, so avoid getting frustrated if things move slower than expected, especially in local markets or government offices.