As of January 1, 2024, Kenya has eliminated traditional visa requirements for all travelers, including those visiting Narok County. Instead, visitors must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) before arrival.

 eTA Requirements for Visiting Narok County

To obtain an eTA for travel to Narok County, follow these steps:

1. Visit the Official eTA Portal: Go to etakenya.go.ke
2. Create an Account: Register as a new user.
3. Complete the Application: Provide personal details, passport information, and travel plans.
4. Upload Required Documents:
• A valid passport (with at least six months’ validity).
• A recent passport-sized photograph.
• Proof of accommodation (e.g., hotel booking or invitation letter).
• Return or onward travel ticket.
• Yellow fever vaccination certificate (if traveling from endemic countries)
5. Pay the eTA Fee: The processing fee is approximately USD 32.50.
6. Await Approval: Processing typically takes 1–3 business days.
7. Receive eTA: Once approved, download and print your eTA.

1. Wildlife Safaris in Maasai Mara National Reserve
What to do: Game drives, bird watching, nature walks.
Highlights: The Big Five (lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, rhino), cheetahs, giraffes, hyenas, over 450 bird species.

2. Hot Air Balloon Safaris
What to do: Float over the Maasai Mara at sunrise.
Highlights: Aerial views of wildlife, panoramic landscapes, followed by a champagne bush breakfast.

3. Cultural Visits to Maasai Villages (Manyattas)
What to do: Engage with the Maasai people, learn about their customs, try traditional food, and watch dances.
Highlights: Authentic cultural immersion, local beadwork, storytelling around the fire.

4. Hiking and Trekking in Loita Hills
What to do: Multi-day treks or guided hikes.
Highlights: Pristine forest trails, waterfalls, and encounters with wildlife. Often guided by Maasai warriors.

5. Visit Mau Forest and Enkare Narok River
What to do: Eco-tours, forest walks, bird watching.
Highlights: One of Kenya’s largest indigenous forests; a critical water catchment and biodiversity hotspot.

6. Photography Tours
What to do: Join specialized photography safaris.
Highlights: Capture dramatic predator hunts, vibrant sunsets, and cultural portraits.

7. Shopping for Local Handicrafts
What to do: Visit local markets in Narok town.
Highlights: Buy authentic Maasai jewelry, shukas (traditional cloth), and wood carvings.

8. Agri-Tourism & Community Visits
What to do: Visit local farms and community projects.
Highlights: Learn about sustainable agriculture, honey production, and support local livelihoods. 

9. Bird Watching
What to do: Guided bird tours in the Mara, Mau Forest, and riverbanks.
Highlights: Spot rare and endemic species like the Secretary Bird, Martial Eagle, and Lilac-breasted Roller.

July–October for the Great Migration.

Health Tips

1. Vaccinations & Health Precautions

·         Recommended vaccinations:

·         Yellow Fever (required if coming from a country with risk)

·         Hepatitis A & B

·         Typhoid

·         Tetanus

·         COVID-19 (updated vaccination recommended)

·         Malaria: Narok is a malaria risk area, especially in and around Maasai Mara. Bring mosquito repellent and take anti-malarial medication as advised by a travel doctor.

2. Food & Water Safety

·         Drink only bottled or treated water.

·         Eat freshly cooked food and avoid uncooked salads or unpeeled fruits in rural areas.

·         Avoid street food unless from a trusted source.

3. Medical Services

·         Narok Town has several hospitals and health centers including:

·         Narok County Referral Hospital

·         Cottage Hospital

·         Private clinics and pharmacies

·         For emergencies in remote areas (like Maasai Mara), lodges often have first-aid kits and evacuation plans via air ambulance services (e.g., AMREF Flying Doctors).

Safety Tips

1. Wildlife Safety

·         Always follow the guide’s instructions during game drives or nature walks.

·         Stay inside vehicles in game parks.

·         Never approach or feed wild animals.

·         Avoid walking at night in or near reserves.

2. General Travel Safety

Narok is generally safe, but:

·         Be cautious with valuables.

·         Use licensed tour operators.

·         Keep emergency contacts and your embassy info handy.

3. Road Safety

·         Roads to rural parts, especially around the Maasai Mara, can be rough.

·         If self-driving, use a 4x4 vehicle.

·         Avoid traveling at night due to poor lighting and potential hazards.

4. Weather & Environment

·         Protect yourself from sun exposure (use sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses).

·         Be prepared for sudden weather changes, especially during the rainy seasons (March–May, Oct–Nov), which can affect road conditions.

Emergency Numbers (Kenya-wide)

·         Police: 999 / 112

·         Ambulance Services (AMREF Flying Doctors): +254 20 699 2000

·         Narok County Referral Hospital: (can be looked up for latest contact)