Kenya Holidays & Business Hours

Know Before You Go

Kenya operates on East Africa Time (EAT), UTC +3, and most tourism services run throughout the week. While safari lodges, hotels, and national parks are generally open daily, it’s helpful to know the country’s public holidays and typical business hours when planning your trip.

🕒 Business Hours

Government Offices

• Monday – Friday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• Closed on weekends and public holidays.

Banks

• Monday – Friday: 8:30 AM – 4:00 PM
• Saturday: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM (selected branches)
• Closed on Sundays.

Shopping Malls & Supermarkets

• Daily: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM
• Some supermarkets operate 24/7 in major cities.

Restaurants & Cafés

• Typically open from 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM
• Tourist areas may stay open later.

National Parks & Game Reserves

• Usually open daily from 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
• Morning and afternoon game drives are the most popular times for wildlife viewing.

🎉 Major Public Holidays in Kenya

• New Year’s Day – 1 January
• Good Friday & Easter Monday – March/April (dates vary)
• Labour Day – 1 May
• Madaraka Day – 1 June
• Mazingira Day – 10 October
• Mashujaa Day – 20 October
• Jamhuri Day – 12 December
• Christmas Day – 25 December
• Boxing Day – 26 December

Islamic holidays such as Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha are also observed, with dates changing each year according to the lunar calendar.

🌍 Travel Tip

Most hotels, safari lodges, tour operators, airports, and tourism services operate every day, including weekends and public holidays. However, government offices, banks, and some businesses may have reduced hours or remain closed on public holidays.

Safari Zest Tours is available to assist you with bookings, itinerary planning, and travel support to help ensure your holiday in Kenya is smooth and memorable.