FAQs

Do I need a passport?

You will need to secure a passport. If you have an existing passport, make sure it is current and will still be current for at least 6 months after our departure date. A is required for Kenya- it is $50 and your team leader will walk you through the process. In order to get a passport, take your certified birth certificate, 2 passport size photos, the passport application and required fees to the nearest post office which houses a U.S. Customs office. Be mindful that it can take 4-6 weeks to receive your passport. On the application, indicate exactly how your name should appear. If you are renewing your passport, put on the application how your name appears on your current passport.

What about airline tickets?

Our teams traditionally fly on British Airways. Depending on the mission, teams might book together or you will be required to purchase individually. Please seek guidance of your team leader for further information on specifics regarding your flight.

Baggage?

You will need to pack lightly. Each team member will be allowed only one regulation size carry-on bag and one backpack (or small bag) to go under the seat. You will not be able to check bags because that will be used for the footlockers. Each team member is allowed one-gallon size bag of items over the 3 oz. limit for liquids and sharps (shampoos, etc). These bags go in a separate footlocker for team members.

What to wear?

When in Kenya, the medical and vision teams usually wear surgical scrubs while working because they are cool and comfortable and help to identify you as a team member. You will need a set for each day unless you chose to use the laundry service at the hotel. For other ministry teams, comfortable and modest clothing are necessary. Comfortable shoes are recommended since you will mostly be on concrete floors or walking. You will want to take a light weight jacket since we will be in the mountains where it is cooler at times. Comfortable clothes can be worn at the hotel. Keep in mind that Kenya is a conservative country and we would like to respect that and also to represent Christ well in all that we do, including our clothing.

Immunizations?

Yellow Fever is the only required vaccine for Kenya. It is also encouraged to receive the typhoid fever vaccine and to bring anti-malarial medication. Here are some other general suggestions- use them as a general precaution. Contact your personal physician or a travel clinic to discuss these immunizations. It is at your discretion that you travel without the full series. Remember, these are recommended, not required.

Tetanus: This should be kept current.
Hepatitis A: Two vaccinations 6 months apart - important for persons visiting rural areas, eating or drinking in settings of poor or uncertain sanitation, or who will have close contact with local persons, especially young children.
Hepatitis B: Three vaccinations (first two - one month apart, third - 6 months later). Strongly advised for health care workers only on this trip.

How can I raise support money?

If you desire to solicit for your portion of the trip or the mission in general, we can provide you a sample copy of a form letter that you can edit explaining the trip and requesting donations. You can obtain these by contacting us.

Money?

If you would like to bring some spending money, $200 should be more than enough. This is at your discretion; it is just what we recommend. You will be able to trade US dollars for Kenyan Shillings and back again at the airport in Nairobi. You will need enough for snacks at lunch and beverages during the day. Breakfast and dinner are provided through the hotel in your mission cost.

Water?

We only drink bottled water while in Kenya. The hotel will provide you with one bottle a day in your room. It is suggested that you also use bottled water to brush your teeth. To have obtain more water, there will be groups going to the grocery store during the week for snacks and drinks. Please make sure you stay with the team at all times when stepping outside of the hotel area.

Should you have more questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us.