Unspoken Cultural Norms in Kenya: What Every Tourist Should Know

Unspoken Cultural Norms in Kenya: What Every Tourist Should Know

Kenya is a culturally diverse country, with over 42 different ethnic communities coexisting. Kenyans are generally friendly and hospitable, greeting each other with warm handshakes and hugs, but there are certain unspoken cultural norms that every tourist should be aware of to avoid offending locals or accidentally causing harm. In this article, we’ll be unpacking some of the most important unspoken cultural norms in Kenya you should know as a tourist.

Greetings

Greetings are an essential component of Kenyan culture, and they are taken very seriously. When greeting someone, make sure to shake hands firmly and maintain eye contact. A weak handshake is considered insulting and shows a lack of respect. Additionally, Kenyans often take time to inquire about each other’s health, well-being, and family before proceeding to other matters. It is essential to take your time, listen attentively, and reciprocate.

Dress code

Kenya is a conservative society, and it is important to dress modestly in public places. Avoid revealing clothing, such as shorts or overly tight clothing. Women should cover their cleavage and wear skirts or dresses that cover the knees. Men should also avoid wearing shorts or going shirtless in public places unless they are at the beach. Additionally, Kenyans tend to dress formally for events such as weddings, funerals, and religious events. It is advisable to research the dress code of an event before attending.

Personal Space

Kenyans value privacy and personal space. It is important to avoid standing too close to someone when talking or queuing in public places. A distance of one meter is considered comfortable. Furthermore, it is considered disrespectful to touch someone or point using your index finger. Instead, use your entire hand or nod in the direction you want to indicate.

Taboos

Kenya has taboos that are considered taboo and are avoided in conversations and behavior. For example, it is considered rude for men to touch or carry a child while in public. Additionally, discussing politics, religion, or ethnicity can be a contentious topic in Kenya. It is advisable to avoid such topics unless well acquainted with the person or in a private setting.

Tipping

Tipping is a common practice in Kenya, and service providers expect to be tipped. A 10% tip is standard for restaurants, taxis, and other service providers. However, it is important to check if the service charge has been included in the bill before tipping. Additionally, it is important to avoid tipping when you feel you have received poor service, as it can be interpreted as an insult.

Conclusion

Kenya is a beautiful country with tons of tourist attractions, friendly locals, and a rich cultural heritage. However, as a tourist, it is important to be aware of the unspoken cultural norms to avoid causing offense or harm. The above norms are just a few examples, and it is vital to research and learn more about the cultural aspects before visiting Kenya. By doing so, you will get to have an immersive experience in the country and appreciate the people and their culture even more.

Speech tips:

Please note that any statements involving politics will not be approved.