Kenya isn’t just a favourite among digital nomadsit’s alshome to big tech companies like Microsoft, Google, and Grey, all of which have a physical presence in the country. Kenya’s vibrant startup ecosystem, the most funded in the region, offers endless opportunities for digital nomads to collaborate and innovate.
Beyond its business-friendly environment, Kenya boasts stunning beaches like those in Mombasa and iconic national parks such as Tsavo. These natural wonders attract digital nomads from all corners of the globe.
The essence of digital nomadism lies in the ability to work and travel simultaneously. To make this possible, having the right tools is essential for staying productive and connected.
In this article, we’ll explore 12 must-have tools and resources for digital nomads in Kenya.
But first, let’s talk about why these tools are so essential.
Now that we’ve covered the why, let’s dive into the what. Here are 12 essential tools and resources for digital nomads in Kenya.
Tired of swapping SIM cards? An eSIM is the perfect solution for digital nomads hopping between countries.
Airalo is the largest eSIM store, offering plans for over 200 countries. Pro tip: Save 20% on Airalo by using the discount code Grey24 at checkout and paying with your Grey virtual card.
Swahili is one of Africa’s most spoken languages, with over 200 million speakers. Knowing a few phrases can go a long way in Kenya.
Duolingo makes learning Swahili fun and affordable. The free version is ad-supported, but for $12.99 a month, you can enjoy an ad-free experience.
Kenya’s currency is the Kenyan Shilling, and if you’re coming from Europe or Asia, you’ll need a way to manage your money. Grey is an app that lets you easily convert funds into local currency.
With Grey, you can also create virtual cards for seamless spending at popular spots like Naivas and Carrefour. Join over 1 million digital nomads who trust Grey for sending, receiving, and withdrawing money.
Working remotely in Kenya? You’ll need a reliable way to stay in touch with clients. Zoom is a top choice for virtual meetings, standup calls, and one-on-one chats.
With features like spatial sound, Zoom ensures crystal-clear audio.
Pricing starts at $14.99 monthly, though the free version limits calls to 40 minutes.
Struggling to find affordable accommodation in Kenya? Airbnb has revolutionised the way digital nomads travel.
For as little as $10, you can book a room in cities like Nairobi, Mombasa, or Kisumu. Plus, if you own property, Airbnb can be a great way to earn extra income by renting out your space.
Secure cloud storage is a must for digital nomads. Google Drive makes storing, editing, and backing up files easy.
monthly subscriptions for advanced features start at $12 per monthts integration with other Google tools and compatibility across operating systems make it a standout choice. Plans start at $19.99 annually, and casual users receive 15GB of free storage.
Insured nomads offers health and travel insurance services to digital nomads, remote workers and global employees. Insured Nomads also provides other benefits to digital nomads, such as rental car damage, trip cancellation, and pet medical expense insurance. As a Grey user, you’ll get a 10% discount on travel and health insurance plans from Insured Nomads. All you have to do is use the promo code “Grey10” at checkout.
Couchsurfing is a game-changer for budget-conscious travellers. It offers free accommodation and a chance to experience local culture firsthand.
While it’s free, offering your host a small token of appreciation, like a meal or a drink is polite.
At budget-friendly prices, these apps offer taxis, motorbikes (bodaboda), and bajaj (three-wheelers)Pro tip: Verify your profile and start hosting in your home country to boost your credibility.
Public transport in Kenya, known as “Matatu,” can be tricky to navigate. Apps like Uber, Bolt, and Faras make getting around a breeze.
These apps offer taxis, motorbikes (bodaboda), and bajaj (three-wheelers) at budget-friendly prices.
Pro tip: Link your ride-hailing app to your Grey virtual card for seamless payments.
Power outages are common in Kenya, especially in remote areas. A reliable power bank is a lifesaver for digital nomads.
Brands like Anker and Xiaomi offer compact, high-capacity power banks. For example, Xiaomi’s 10,000 mAH power bank and Anker’s PowerCore Slim are excellent choices.
Internet shutdowns can happen in Kenya, making a VPN essential for digital nomads.
Proton VPN and Nord VPN are popular options. They offer security and access to geo-restricted content. Plans start at just $2 per month.
Designing professional graphics is a breeze with Canva. Its drag-and-drop interface is perfect for creating posters, social media posts, and more.
Many digital nomads have even turned Canva skills into a side hustle on platforms like Fiverr. Pricing starts at $15 per month, but the free version offers plenty of templates for beginners.
If English isn’t your first language, Grammarly is your new best friend. It polishes your writing, fixes grammar mistakes, and suggests the right tone for your audience.
The free version is excellent, but subscriptions start at $12 per month for advanced features.
Kenya is a land of opportunity and adventure, and with the right tools, you can make your trip both productive and unforgettable. Start by creating a Grey account to manage your finances seamlessly.
Safe travels, and enjoy your Kenyan adventure!
Also read: Connect globally with Grey x Airalo.
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