That long-awaited trip to the coast or upcountry is finally here, but your stomach is already doing somersaults at the thought of the matatu ride. You’re not alone—travel sickness, or motion sickness, is a common struggle for many Kenyans on our often bumpy roads.
Don’t let nausea ruin your safari! This guide breaks down exactly what causes that queasy feeling and gives you straightforward, practical steps to prevent and treat it quickly, so you can enjoy the journey.
What You Need Before You Start
Treating travel sickness is mostly about being prepared. You don’t need a doctor’s appointment for mild cases, but having a few things ready makes a big difference. Here’s what to have on hand before your journey.
- Basic Medication: Common antihistamines like Stemetil or Avomine can prevent nausea. You can buy them over-the-counter at any pharmacy in Kenya, from a Chemist in town to a Goodlife outlet. They typically cost between KES 50 and KES 200.
- Natural Remedies: Ginger, either as raw root, sweets, or tea, is a trusted local solution for settling the stomach. Pick some up from your local mama mboga or supermarket for about KES 20-50.
- Travel Essentials: Have a plastic bag, wet wipes, and drinking water easily accessible. Pole, but it’s better to be safe than sorry on a long, winding road.
- Your Travel Details: Know your route and estimated travel time. This helps you plan when to take medication, usually 30-60 minutes before departure.
Step-by-Step: Travel Sickness: What is it and how to treat in Kenya
Managing travel sickness involves a few key actions before and during your trip; with the right approach, you can feel better in as little as 30 minutes.
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Step 1: Choose Your Prevention Method
About an hour before you travel, decide on your remedy. If using medication like Stemetil, take one tablet with a small amount of water. For a natural option, chew a piece of raw ginger or sip on ginger tea. Always follow the dosage instructions on the packet to avoid drowsiness.
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Step 2: Pick Your Seat Strategically
When boarding the matatu, bus, or car, aim for the front seats. In a vehicle, the front passenger seat is best. In a bus, sit as close to the driver as possible. This minimizes the feeling of motion and gives you a clearer view of the road ahead.
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Step 3: Control Your Gaze and Breathing
Once moving, focus your eyes on the horizon or a distant, stationary point. Avoid reading your phone or looking at nearby objects rushing by. Take slow, deep breaths through your nose to help calm your nervous system and reduce anxiety.
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Step 4: Manage Your Environment
Ensure you have some fresh air. Crack open a window slightly or direct the air vent towards your face. Avoid strong smells like petrol, perfume, or heavy food from other passengers, as these can quickly trigger nausea.
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Step 5: Have a Snack and Stay Hydrated
Don’t travel on a completely empty stomach. Eat a light, bland snack like a plain biscuit or banana before and during the trip. Sip cool water regularly, but avoid sugary sodas or large, heavy meals that can upset your stomach further.
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Step 6: Use Acupressure for Quick Relief
If you start feeling queasy, apply firm pressure to the P6 acupressure point on your inner wrist. Find it by measuring three finger-widths down from your wrist crease, between the two tendons. Press or massage this point for a few minutes.
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Step 7: Know When to Stop
If the nausea becomes severe, politely ask the driver to stop at the next safe opportunity. Get out, breathe fresh air, and walk around for a few minutes. This short break can reset your senses and is much better than struggling through.
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Step 8: Seek Medical Advice if It Persists
If travel sickness is a frequent, debilitating problem, consult a doctor at your local clinic or hospital. They can assess you and may prescribe stronger medication. You can also book a consultation online through platforms like the Afya Yangu portal or hospital apps.
Common Problems and How to Fix Them
Medication Makes You Too Drowsy
Some anti-nausea pills like Avomine can cause heavy sleepiness, which is dangerous if you’re the one driving. The fix is to test the medication at home first before your trip. Take one on a day you don’t need to go out and see how your body reacts. If it’s too strong, switch to a non-drowsy formula or stick to natural ginger.
Fresh Air is Impossible on a Packed Matatu
During peak travel seasons, matatus are packed and windows are often shut. This stuffy environment worsens nausea. Your best move is to politely request the “makanga” to slightly lower your window or sit directly next to a window you control. If that fails, carry a small handheld fan or a handkerchief with a drop of peppermint oil to breathe through.
You Forgot Your Remedies and Feel Sick Mid-Journey
It happens, especially on spontaneous trips. Don’t panic. Ask the driver to stop at the next roadside duka or petrol station. You can almost always buy a soda (like Stoney Tangawizi) or some ginger sweets to help settle your stomach. Focusing on your breathing and the horizon can also provide relief until the next stop.
Sickness is Severe and Disrupts Every Trip
If basic tricks never work and you’re dreading any journey, it’s time to see a doctor. They can check for underlying issues and prescribe stronger treatment. Visit your nearest public health centre or book a private consultation. For specialist referrals, you can contact the Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Council (KMPDC) hotline for guidance on certified physicians.
Cost and Timeline for Travel Sickness: What is it and how to treat in Kenya
Managing travel sickness is generally very affordable, with most costs being for prevention. The timeline for relief can be immediate with the right steps.
| Item | Cost (KES) | Timeline |
|---|---|---|
| Over-the-counter medication (e.g., Stemetil) | 50 – 200 | Take 30-60 mins before travel; lasts several hours. |
| Natural remedies (ginger, mint) | 20 – 100 | Can provide relief within 15-30 minutes of use. |
| Doctor’s consultation (if needed) | 500 – 2,000+ | Clinic visit takes 1-2 hours; prescription effective same day. |
| Prescription medication | 300 – 1,000 | Dispensed immediately after doctor’s visit. |
Hidden costs include buying bottled water and snacks for the journey, which can add KES 100-300. Costs for clinic visits are fairly standard, but private hospitals in major cities like Nairobi or Mombasa will charge more than county health facilities. There are no official government fees for basic treatment.
The Bottom Line
Travel sickness doesn’t have to ruin your trip upcountry or to the coast. With simple, affordable preparation—like having ginger or medication ready and choosing the right seat—you can manage that queasy feeling and enjoy the journey. The key is acting before you get on the road.
Found these tips helpful? Share this guide with your family and friends who dread long matatu rides, and let us know your own remedies in the comments below!
Frequently Asked Questions: Travel Sickness: What is it and how to treat in Kenya
What is the fastest way to stop feeling nauseous during a journey?
The quickest relief often comes from fresh air and focusing your eyes on the horizon. Open a window or step outside at the next safe stop for a few minutes.
Chewing a piece of raw ginger or applying pressure to your inner wrist can also provide relief within 15-30 minutes.
Can I buy travel sickness medicine without a prescription in Kenya?
Yes, common anti-nausea medications like Stemetil and Avomine are available over-the-counter at any pharmacy or chemist. They are affordable, typically costing between KES 50 and KES 200.
Remember to take them about an hour before you travel for them to be most effective and to check if they cause drowsiness.
Are children more prone to travel sickness, and how can I help them?
Yes, children between 2 and 12 years are often more susceptible. For them, natural methods are usually best to avoid medication side effects.
Give them ginger sweets, ensure they have a window seat to look outside, and pack light, bland snacks like crackers for the trip.
What if the standard remedies don’t work for me at all?
If you’ve tried everything and still get severely sick, it’s time to consult a doctor. They can check for other issues and prescribe stronger treatment.
You can visit a local clinic or use platforms like the Afya Yangu portal to book a consultation with a specialist.
Is travel sickness more common on certain roads in Kenya?
Absolutely. Winding, hilly routes like those in the Aberdares or parts of the Nairobi-Nakuru highway are notorious for causing motion sickness due to constant turns.
Being extra prepared with medication and strategic seating is crucial for these specific journeys. Knowing your route helps you plan better.
