Here is a useful reminder for those who are preparing to visit Kenya at the start of what promises to be a busy season for our fellow countrymen.

Travellers be warned: what you can (and cannot) bring to Kenya without regretting it

Anyone travelling to Kenya at this time of year, with a suitcase full of holiday gear, perhaps even longer than the standard week, and a few packets of spaghetti hidden among their socks, would do well to brush up on the customs rules. The Kenyan authorities are no longer joking around: airport scanners now have the sharp eyesight of an eagle and the patience of a German official.

In order to comply with international standards, Kenya has adopted increasingly strict border controls, and luggage is X-rayed as if it contained the solution to all the world's problems.

Bacchus, tobacco and no hiding places

These are tough times for lovers of personal supplies. You are allowed 200 cigarettes (or 50 cigars, for the romantics), while for alcohol the limit is one bottle of spirits above 13% ABV. There is a certain African tolerance when it comes to wine: officially one bottle, but often one per suitcase is allowed.

Those who want to get around the rule can rely on Duty Free, with the bottle sealed in a transparent bag as per international regulations.

No luck, however, for cold cuts, fruit or plants: either you obtain special permits or they stay at home. Grandfather's salami will not cross the border, even if it is more mature than the customs officer.

Food, gifts and good intentions

Any new or packaged item, if accompanied by a receipt, may be taxed. Even an innocent vacuum-packed jar, if it is a brand available in Kenya.

Homemade packaged products are no better: unmarked plastics are considered illegal. It is best to avoid the “lasagne smuggler” effect.

Medicines deserve a separate chapter: if you are carrying more than one package, you will need a prescription in English. And if you intend to donate medicines, clothes or other items, always carry a letter from the recipient organisation. Saying “it's for the children” is not enough, and you risk being seen as a disguised importer. When in doubt, customs duties are always around the corner, sometimes accompanied by a smile that invites bargaining.

Finally, remember that plastic bags have been banned since 2019: those who use them risk heavy fines or disapproving looks from nature itself.

Drones on the ground

The dream of filming lions from above is still on hold. Drones for tourists remain trapped in bureaucracy: they can be declared on arrival, but are difficult to use. In theory, a permit is required; in practice, no one issues one. If they find one in your suitcase, they will confiscate it until your return flight.

Prohibited items and various temptations

Leave guns, toy weapons, harpoons, ivory objects, animal amulets, risqué magazines and sex toys at home. In Kenya, certain curiosities are still frowned upon, both above and below the belt.

Final tip: smile, don't bribe

Not all customs officers are there to ask you for money, but some are. In any case, Kenyan law punishes both those who pay and those who ask. Don't be clever: refuse politely and, if necessary, point out that the anti-corruption office numbers are displayed right there, next to the luggage trolleys.

In summary: arrive light, respectful and sober — at least until you leave the airport.