Ready for WordCamp Nairobi 2024? Here’s Your Ultimate Guide to Attending!

If you're a WordPress enthusiast—developer, blogger, or entrepreneur—WordCamp Nairobi 2024 is the place to be! Whether you're flying from Uganda or taking a scenic bus journey through East Africa, this guide covers everything from essential travel documents and transportation tips to accommodation, event tickets, and networking essentials. Get ready for an immersive experience filled with learning, collaboration, and new opportunities. With this year’s theme, Beyond the Savannah, let’s explore, connect, and grow together!

WordCamp Nairobi 2024

From the moment WordCamp Nairobi 2024 was announced, I’ve been thinking about how I’m going to attend. One evening after work, I set aside time to gather all the information I’ll need to prepare for my trip—dates, times, travel plans, and more. Attending a WordCamp is an exciting opportunity for anyone in the WordPress community, whether you’re a developer, blogger, designer, or entrepreneur. As a Ugandan, traveling is in my blood—I guess I’m a bit of a nomad (laughs).

If you’re coming from outside Kenya, here are a few things you need to know to ensure your trip goes smoothly and successfully:

1.    Documentation (Identification)

Before you think about traveling, make sure you have all the necessary documents ready. This will help you avoid any hassles at the airport, immigration office, bus stops, road checkpoints, or anywhere else. Kenya takes security seriously, and there may be random checks, so always be alert.

Some of the documents you’ll need include: –

  • Passport (Especially for non-East African states): A passport valid for more than six months beyond your stay.
  • Visa: An entry visa valid for at least one week beyond your planned stay to avoid interruptions.

NOTE: In accordance to the East Africa Community Blog Members of the East African Community do not need a passport or visa for the WordCamp Nairobi 2024 or for any other reason. A valid National ID is sufficient. However, if you have a passport, be sure to get it stamped at the border.

In Summary. The Documentation could be something like this

2.    Transportation

There are several ways to get to Nairobi: 

  • Flights: 

Many airlines fly into Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO), which is near the WordCamp Nairobi 2024 venue and the busiest airport in the region. Some flights may have long layovers, while others may have short or barely noticeable ones. all this greatly depends on your Booking and travel time

Flight times and costs vary depending on your departure point, as do the amenities provided on board. Be sure to read reviews and check comments before booking.  This is the home of the secrets

For Ugandans, flying to WordCamp Nairobi 2024 from Entebbe International Airport to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport is the fastest option, with flight durations ranging from 45 minutes to 1.5 hours. Airlines such as Uganda Airlines, Kenya Airways, and RwandAir frequently operate on this route.

  • Bus: 

Buses are ideal for East Africans and travelers from neighboring countries. This is a great option if you enjoy scenic travel and is also budget-friendly. Popular buses like Mash Cool, BusCar, Modern Coast, Simba Coach, and Mash Poa run regular routes between Kampala and Nairobi. 

The bus journey is usually overnight, with most buses leaving Kampala at around 4:00 PM and arriving in Nairobi around 6:00 AM. The same applies for the return Trip. The trip generally takes 12 to 15 hours, including stops for refreshments, quick meals, and leg stretching.

The cost of a bus ticket from Kampala to Nairobi ranges between $25 and $50, depending on factors such as the type of bus, seat, and seat position. Always ask at the booking office to ensure you book the right bus. This information is provided free of charge at booking offices.

To make the long journey more enjoyable, consider reading e-books, watching movies, studying the Bible, or simply getting some sleep to avoid fatigue. The journey to Busia or Malaba is during the day, while the trip through Kenya occurs overnight. 

TIP: To be comfortable, bring a neck pillow for support, a thick jacket (it can get really cold), and a power bank. Some buses have power outlets, but often only one slot per person. Bringing a power Extension Cable can help you charge multiple devices hence adding to the fun.

  • Train: 

Trains are ideal for mostly people coming from Places with in Kenya and other Places covered by the Kenya Railway system. This is a great option if you are coming from areas from Mombasa to Nairobi

3.    Accommodation

This part took me hours of internet browsing! Where you sleep in Nairobi largely depends on your budget, booking time, and desired style of accommodation. WordCamp Nairobi attracts many attendees, so it’s important to book early. Nairobi offers a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly stays. Here are a few options to consider:

a)   Budget Residences:

There are plenty of guesthouses and hostels within walking distance of the venue—Daystar University, Nairobi Campus—at very affordable rates.

b)   Mid-range: 

Nairobi has many affordable hotels in Westlands, Kilimani, and surrounding areas. These neighborhoods are well-connected to the city center and the WordCamp Nairobi 2024 venue. 

  • High-end (Luxury): 

Nairobi is home to several luxury suites and hotels, offering ultimate comfort and great value for money. Some are so close you can view the WordCamp Nairobi 2024 venue from your bedroom window. 

  • Bookings (Rental & Shared options): 

If you can’t find what you’re looking for, websites like Booking.com and Airbnb offer great alternatives. They connect you to residential options near the venue, catering to a variety of budgets—from low-end to luxury. These platforms are particularly useful for first-time travelers. 

4.    Event Ticket

Nairobi WordCamp 2024

WordCamp Nairobi tickets are very affordable compared to other tech conferences. This year, tickets cost $15 for the General Pass and $50 for the Micro-Sponsor Ticket. There’s really no excuse not to attend!

The General Pass grants you access to meals, speakers, tracks, networking sessions, panels, keynotes, and interactions with facilitators from around the world.

To buy a ticket, follow the links on the event’s website or copy this link into your browser: [https://nairobi.wordcamp.org/2024/tickets/].

5.    Health Requirements

Currently, the most important health requirement for inbound and outbound travel is the Yellow Fever vaccination, along with the COVID-19 vaccination. While COVID restrictions are not as strict, be sure to carry your Yellow Fever vaccination card alongside your passport or ID.

If you have known health conditions, it’s a good idea to travel with a doctor’s recommendation, in case of an emergency. When I traveled to Wales, I was advised to attach my emergency contact details to the back of my passport, including the following information: 

  • Emergency Contact 
  • Name 
  • Email 
  • Phone 
  • WhatsApp

This ensures that, in case of an emergency, people know how to respond. Don’t forget to carry any necessary medications, as Kenyan pharmacies might stock different brands than you’re used to.

6.    Money

Kenya’s official currency is the Kenyan Shilling (KES), and the notes are bilingual in English and Swahili. While it’s easy to exchange currency in Kenya, it’s advisable to convert some money before you travel—USD is the most commonly accepted foreign currency. 

Kenya is moving towards a cashless economy, and mobile money systems like M-Pesa are widely used— even motorcyclists accept it! ATMs are also available across the city, allowing you to withdraw Kenyan Shillings if needed. Still, it’s a good idea to carry some cash with you just in case.

7.    SIM Card

Getting a SIM card in Nairobi is easy and affordable, costing between $0.50 and $2, depending on where you buy it. Having a local SIM will give you access to both mobile data and mobile money, making your stay in Nairobi much smoother. Read this Guide on how to get a Kenyan Simcard

8.    Networking Essentials

WordCamp events are all about learning and networking. To get the most out of the event, here are a few essentials to bring along:

WordCamp Nairobi 2024
  • Business Cards: Bring plenty of business cards to share with potential clients, collaborators, and mentors.  These cards come in handy during the networking events.  Who knows, your next client could be in the group.
  • Devices: Ensure you have your laptop, smartphone, and/or tablet ready for taking notes and participating in the workshop sessions. Devices can be very disappointing when it comes to power usage, to be on a safe side don’t forget to bring your power bank and charger!

Conclusion

WordCamp Nairobi is more than just attending sessions—it’s about sharing knowledge, interacting in Q&A panels, and networking. Prepare to engage with others, ask questions, and share your experiences. Be sure to follow the event’s official hashtag on social media to stay connected and fully immerse yourself in the WordPress community.

If you plan properly, WordCamp Nairobi 2024 can be an unforgettable experience. Get your travel documents in order, book your accommodation, and get ready for a fun and enriching event filled with learning, networking, and new opportunities. With this year’s theme, “Beyond the Savannah,” I’m excited to attend—and I hope to see you there too!

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