Elevate Destinations

Experts in socially responsible luxury travel. We design travel experiences that support conservation and local communities without skimping on comfort.

American Jewish World Service: Study Tour to Kenya
August 13 – 20, 2023

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

Please note that your participation in the program is contingent on your ability to be covered under AJWS’s international medical and evacuation insurance policy. You must complete this physicians form no later than 30 days prior to the trip (July 11, 2023): Physician Form

Travelers over the age of 75 are required to complete an additional medical form which must be approved by Global Rescue, AJWS’s emergency medical and evacuation provider, in order to guarantee full coverage while traveling. If for any reason Global Rescue is unable to guarantee a participant’s coverage, AJWS reserves the right to deny the individual’s participation in the Study Tour, so please contact AJWS staff prior to making your non-refundable deposit to discuss your eligibility.

Please note that this trip requires participants to::

  • Walk at least one mile without difficulty on uneven surfaces
  • Spend extended periods of time on their feet
  • Climb sets of stairs without assistance
  • Keep pace with an active group of travelers
  • Ride comfortably in a vehicle on bumpy roads for extended periods of time
HEALTH INFORMATION & IMMUNIZATIONS

Prior to travel, Elevate Destinations strongly recommends that you look into recommended immunizations for your time in Kenya. Given that we are not a licensed health care provider, we cannot advise travelers on which immunizations they may need. We recommend that all travelers do the following:

  • Check that your health insurance covers you in Kenya. If it doesn’t, please consider getting travel insurance that covers your health while traveling.
  • Consult with a travel clinic or your primary care physician regarding immunizations or other precautions you may need to take in order to participate in this journey. You will need to do this well in advance of your trip as some vaccinations require time to take effect, and you may need to allow time between a series of shots.
  • Visit the CDC Health & Safety Guide for Kenya to view recommended vaccines and medicines, travel health notices for the region, and other tips for staying healthy and safe.
SAFETY RECOMMENDATIONS

Your guide will give you current briefings on safety while in-country, but here are some basic ground rules for safety while traveling:

  • Keep all valuables in the hotel safe or in a locked suitcase.
  • Avoid flashing money. Be mindful of your belongings at all times. Keep bags in front of you in crowds, and on your lap when at restaurants.
  • Pay attention: avoid walking around with your smartphone in hand.
  • Be vigilant when crossing roads.
  • Stick with the group.
  • Always make sure that others know of your whereabouts and movements.
  • Avoid street protests or large gatherings.
  • Do not wear expensive or sentimental valuable jewelry while traveling.
  • Let your guide know if you have any safety concerns.
SMART TRAVELER ENROLLMENT PROGRAM (STEP)

The Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) is a free service provided by the U.S. Government to U.S. citizens who are traveling to, or living in, a foreign country. STEP allows you to enter information about your upcoming trip abroad so that the Department of State can better assist you in case of an emergency.

TO ENTER KENYA, TRAVELERS MUST:

Provide Kenyan E-Visa upon entry.

Please note: As of May 4, 2023, Kenya no longer requires proof of COVID-19 vaccine or negative PCR test within 72 hours before departure. We still highly recommend traveling with your Covid Vaccine Card. You can download the CLEAR App (download the app here) on your mobile phone to generate a digital copy of your Covid Vaccine Card.

If you have flu-like symptoms, you will be stopped for a PCR test at your own cost.

REQUIREMENTS FOR THIS TRIP:
  • Covid vaccination: Be fully vaccinated for Covid and up to date with any additional doses of the vaccine you are eligible for. Keep a copy of your vaccine certificate (paper and digital copy) with you throughout the trip.
  • Monitor your symptoms: Inform your guide if you experience Covid-related symptoms. Your guide can arrange a PCR test for you, at your own expense. The cost of a Covid test in Kenya ranges between $50 – $100 USD.
  • Quarantine: If you test positive for Covid, we ask that you self-isolate, at your own expense. Please read the CDC guidelines here.
  • Travel and medical insurance: Purchase travel and medical insurance that covers Covid-related expenses and costs associated with quarantine.
COVID PROTOCOLS:

During the trip, travelers will be asked to abide by the following guidelines:

  • Self-monitor, and take a Covid PCR test if you are experiencing Covid-related symptoms.

Please note: AJWS will have rapid tests on hand if needed. If you would like to utilize one, please let them know.

Quarantine Protocols

Kenya does not have any quarantine restrictions. However, if you experience symptoms you will be asked to take a PCR test. If you test positive, you will be asked to quarantine at your own expense and discretion.

Please do not hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or concerns about the Covid protocols for your journey.