Kenya is popular with tourists for safaris and is generally safe in tourist areas, but check the current US State Department advisory for areas to avoid.
Overview
Kenya is a popular safari destination. Tourist areas such as the Maasai Mara, Amboseli and Diani Beach are widely visited. Check the State Department’s current level before you travel.
Risks
- Terrorism, especially near the Somali border and the coast.
- Crime in Nairobi and Mombasa.
- Malaria.
Areas to avoid
Counties near the Somali border: Garissa, Lamu and Mandera are flagged in advisories.
Tips
- Use reputable tour operators.
- Take malaria prevention.
- Get a yellow fever vaccine if required.
- Avoid night driving.
Official advisories
The US State Department advises caution in Kenya (Level 2 at times in recent years), with some areas marked “Reconsider travel” or higher because of terrorism, crime and civil unrest. Advisories change, so check before booking.
Tourism
Kenya received about 1.9 million international visitors in 2023, according to the Ministry of Tourism, drawn by safaris, the Maasai Mara, Amboseli National Park, beaches near Mombasa and Diani, and Mount Kenya.
Main risks
- Terrorism, particularly by al-Shabaab, mainly near the Somali border and the northeastern counties (Garissa, Mandera, Wajir) and Lamu County’s coast near the Somalia border.
- Crime in Nairobi, including muggings, carjacking and phone snatching. Avoid walking at night.
- Political demonstrations, which can turn violent.
- Road accidents, which are a leading cause of tourist injuries.
- Health: malaria, dengue, traveler’s diarrhea, and yellow fever requirements for some travelers.
Typical tourist circuits
Safaris with registered operators in national parks and conservancies, and coast resorts, are generally considered lower risk.
Tips
- Use reputable tour operators and drivers.
- Take malaria prophylaxis as advised by a doctor, and use insect repellent and bed nets.
- Drink bottled or treated water.
- Use ride share apps or hotel arranged taxis in Nairobi.
- Keep valuables out of sight.
- Get vaccines such as hepatitis A, typhoid and yellow fever as recommended by the CDC.
- Respect wildlife rules and keep distance.
Entry
Most visitors need an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) before arrival. Check the official government portal.
Insurance
Buy travel insurance with medical evacuation cover.
Wildlife and health considerations
Safaris in Kenya are generally safe when run by licensed operators following park rules. Never leave vehicles or approach animals on foot. Malaria is present in much of the country, including coastal areas and Lake Victoria, so antimalarial drugs and mosquito protection are widely recommended. A yellow fever vaccine certificate may be required if arriving from a country with risk of transmission. The CDC lists routine vaccines plus hepatitis A and typhoid as commonly recommended.
Regional caution areas
Terrorism and crime risks are higher near the Somali border and parts of the coast near Lamu, and some northeastern counties are under stronger advisories. Nairobi has street crime, including muggings and carjackings, so avoid walking at night and use trusted taxis or ride hailing apps. Political demonstrations can turn violent and roads can be blocked, so avoid protests. Kenya uses an electronic travel authorization system for most visitors, replacing visa applications for many nationalities.
Based on data from the US Department of State, the CDC and Kenya Tourism Board
