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Entry rules in East Africa change often, and they depend on your nationality. We give the general position as of September 2026, but confirm every requirement with the official immigration site for each country before you book or travel. Apply only through official government portals. Look-alike websites charge extra fees.
Kenya
Kenya replaced its visa system for most nationalities with an Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) in January 2024. The fee is around US$30, and processing usually takes up to three working days. Apply well in advance at the official portal, etakenya.go.ke. Some nationalities have different rules, and some are exempt. Print your approval or keep it on your phone.
Tanzania
Most visitors need a tourist visa. The standard single-entry fee is about US$50, and US citizens pay US$100 for a multiple-entry visa. You can apply online for an e-visa through the Tanzanian immigration website or, in many cases, on arrival at the airport. Applying online in advance is usually quicker. Zanzibar is part of Tanzania, though immigration checks apply when you arrive there from the mainland.
Uganda
Most visitors need an e-visa, which costs about US$50 for a single-entry tourist visa and should be applied for online before you travel. The East Africa Tourist Visa is also available. Yellow fever certificate rules have been enforced strictly, so carry your vaccination card.
Rwanda
Rwanda has one of the simplest systems in the region. Many nationalities are exempt from visa fees or can get a visa on arrival, and others can apply online. Citizens of African Union, Commonwealth and Francophonie states often receive fee-free entry. The standard tourist visa lasts 30 days. Plastic bags are banned in Rwanda, so don’t pack them.
The East Africa Tourist Visa
The East Africa Tourist Visa costs US$100 and allows multiple entries between Kenya, Rwanda and Uganda over 90 days. It doesn’t cover Tanzania. You apply through the immigration authority of the first country you’ll enter, and you must enter that country first. It’s a good choice for a Uganda and Rwanda gorilla combination, like our 10-day circuit, because it’s cheaper than buying two separate visas. Check the current rules on which nationalities qualify and how to apply.
Summary table
| Country | Typical requirement (Sept 2026) | Typical cost | Apply |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kenya | eTA | About US$30 | Online, before travel |
| Tanzania | Tourist visa | About US$50 (US$100 multiple-entry for US citizens) | E-visa or on arrival |
| Uganda | E-visa | About US$50 | Online, before travel |
| Rwanda | Visa on arrival or e-visa, many exempt | Varies by nationality | On arrival or online |
| Kenya, Rwanda, Uganda | East Africa Tourist Visa | US$100 | Through the first country you enter |
Yellow fever and other health documents
Many countries require proof of yellow fever vaccination if you’ve come from or through a country with a risk of transmission. Uganda has been the strictest, so plan to carry a certificate if you’re visiting. Read our health guide for malaria, vaccinations and medical cover.
Other things to check
- Passport validity. At least six months from your arrival date, with blank pages.
- Return or onward ticket. Airlines and immigration may ask for one.
- Children. Some countries require extra documents, especially for minors travelling with one parent.
- Travel insurance. Not required for entry, but essential for safaris, where medical evacuation can be costly.
- Drones. Prohibited or restricted in most parks. Check before you pack one.
Our advice
Apply about a month before departure. Save copies of every approval, and keep your passport in a safe place on safari. Ask your tour operator whether they can confirm the latest rules for your nationality, and check your government’s travel advice at the same time. For safety, see our safety guide.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a visa for Kenya?
Most visitors need an Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA), which replaced the visa for many nationalities. As of September 2026 the fee is around US$30 and processing usually takes up to three working days. Apply only through the official portal at etakenya.go.ke, and check your nationality's rules before you travel.
What is the East Africa Tourist Visa?
It's a single visa, priced at US$100, that covers Kenya, Rwanda and Uganda for up to 90 days with multiple entries among them. Tanzania isn't part of it. You apply through the country you'll enter first. It's worth it if you're visiting at least two of the three countries.
Can I get a visa on arrival?
Rwanda offers visa on arrival to most visitors, and Tanzania offers visas on arrival in many cases. Uganda and Kenya push applicants to apply online in advance. Applying online avoids queues and problems, and some airlines check documents before boarding.
Do I need a yellow fever certificate?
Kenya, Tanzania and Rwanda require one from travellers arriving from countries with yellow fever transmission risk. Uganda has enforced the requirement more widely, and many operators advise carrying a certificate regardless. Check with your doctor and the official source for your route.
How long must my passport be valid?
At least six months from the date of entry is the safe standard for all four countries, and you'll need blank pages for stamps. Don't wait until the last moment to renew.
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Last updated 20 September 2026. Rules, prices and schedules change. We recheck the facts in this guide regularly, but confirm anything that affects your money or your entry to a country with the official source.