Resources

Travel Info
Mombasa SECURITY
KENYA Pro Tips
Contact
Travel Info
Mombasa Security
KENYA Pro Tips
Contact

Travel Information

Once you have booked your travel, here are a few resources you should review.

Lighthouse
Guest Booklet

Kenya eTA

(Electronic Travel Authorization)

Missionary
Travel Agency

CDC Health
Information

Travel
Insurance

Book a
Safari

Security in and Around Mombasa

One of the biggest questions we get from potential volunteers is about the security situation in Mombasa. We recognize that it’s a valid concern and we will keep this resources section updated.

The two kinds of security trouble we could deal with are terrorism-related and petty crime around town. A few years ago, there were multiple incidences of trouble relating to problems between the Al-shabaab from Somalia and the Kenya military forces in northern Kenya. The last local incidence was in May 2014. As a result, there is now a much larger presence of security forces in and around Mombasa, and we, as residents, feel much safer. There have been no reports of trouble in the last couple of years in the areas where we live and serve. We take care of our own personal safety by not going into town after dark, not walking after dark, keeping our doors on our cars locked, not flashing around our phone or cameras, and being mindful of our surroundings. We also always have our phones with us so we can be gotten ahold of, and carry our passport with us in case we get stopped at routine police checkpoints, to prove we are in the country with valid ID.

KENYA PRO TIPS

Money

You can use your credit card at any reputable grocery store, restaurant, or beach hotel. If you bring cash, bring bills that are NOT older than 3 years, to get the best rate in exchange. Carry US Dollars or a credit card with you while you are travelling, as you never know when you might need money. It’s wise to notify your banks that you are travelling.

Mosquitos

Mosquitos in Mombasa potentially carry malaria. We advise you take a malaria profilaxis, bug repellent for skin, and use a net at night when not at Lighthouse, where we spray instead of using nets. Mosquitos bite the most in the early morning and evening hours.

Sun Protection

The sun is intense here as we are close to the equator. Certain malaria preventatives also can make you more susceptible to burning. Bring sunblock or a hat, especially if you are outside or at the beach in the middle of the day.

Modesty

When you are working at Lighthouse, proper attire is scrubs or semi-casual attire. This means long pants and a shirt with a collar for men. For women, we recommend a skirt or long pants, keeping your shoulders covered. When visiting town, wear the same modest clothing since the population is largely Muslim. If you are going to a beach hotel, you are free to wear whatever you want, within reason. If you go to Nyali, City Mall, restaurants, or the park, long shorts or capris and sleeveless tops are ok.

Be Willing to Let God Move You

You are already allowing God to bring you to Africa. We recommend you come ready to let God do amazing things which may take you out of your comfort zone, stretch your skill set, or upset your carefully planned schedule. We guarantee you will be blessed if you keep your heart inclined to His during this time.

How Can Family Get Involved?

We strongly encourage our volunteers to bring their families along, as the shared experience can really bring the family together.

If you are interested in hearing about some of the service opportunities for non-medical family members, you can contact Maggie Ghrist, the Hospitality and Teams Coordinator .

LINDA ELLIS
Physician Volunteer Coordinator

LINDA ELLIS

Our Stateside Volunteer Coordinator is Linda Ellis.  She has been an integral part of Lighthouse for over 20 years.  Contact her for questions regarding logistics and travel details.