Your travel insurance could be invalidated if you travel against advice from the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO).
\nDue to the risk of terrorism from groups based in Somalia, FCDO advises against all travel to:
\n\nFCDO advises against all but essential travel to:
\n\nFind out more about why FCDO advises against travel.
\n\nNo travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide. You may also find it helpful to:
\n\nIf you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance. Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.
\n\nFCDO provides advice about risks of travel to help you make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice.
\n\nSign up to get email notifications when this travel advice is updated.
\n\nFollow FCDO:
\n\n\n\n","slug":"warnings-and-insurance","title":"Warnings and insurance"},{"body":"This information is for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK. It is based on the UK government’s understanding of the current rules for the most common types of travel.
\n\nThe authorities in Kenya set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the Kenyan High Commission in the UK.
\n\nTo enter Kenya, your passport must have an ‘expiry date’ at least 6 months after the date you arrive and at least 2 blank pages.
\n\nCheck with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet requirements. Renew your passport if you need to.
\n\nYou will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.
\n\nWhen returning to the UK, British citizens must carry a valid British passport or certificate of entitlement. See Dual citizenship.
\n\nYou must apply online for electronic travel authorisation in advance of travel. The local authorities recommend applying at least 2 weeks before your departure.
\n\nTravellers who currently hold a visa can continue to travel using their visa until it expires.
\n\nFor information on work permits and residency, check the Kenyan Department of Immigration requirements.
\n\nTo enter Kenya, you must have a certificate to prove you’ve had a yellow fever vaccination if you’re coming from a country listed as a transmission risk.
\n\nFor full details about medical entry requirements and recommended vaccinations, see TravelHealthPro’s Kenya guide.
\n\nTravellers arriving in Kenya, particularly those coming from Uganda, Ethiopia and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), may be subject to enhanced health screening measures due to the ongoing Ebola outbreak centred in the DRC. The World Health Organisation (WHO) has declared this a Public Health Emergency of International Concern.
\n\nThere are strict rules about goods you can take into or out of Kenya. You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.
\n\nIt is illegal to import or export drones without prior approval from the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA). Contact the KCAA well in advance of travel if you wish to bring a drone to Kenya.
\n\n","slug":"entry-requirements","title":"Entry requirements"},{"body":"This guide also has safety advice for regions of Kenya.
\n\nThere is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.
\n\nUK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe abroad and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad.
\n\nTerrorists are very likely to try to carry out attacks in Kenya.
\nThere is a heightened threat of terrorism across Kenya. Attacks could target westerners, including British nationals. These could occur at any time including at religious events, public holidays or celebrations. Attacks are indiscriminate and could occur in places visited by foreigners, including tourists, such as, but not limited to:
\n\nBe particularly alert in these places. If you go regularly to any location, try to vary timings and patterns of movement. Always travel during daylight hours if possible. Look at the security arrangements in buildings you visit, including bag searches, physical security and guards. The main terrorist threat is from extremists linked to Al Shabaab – an Al Qaida-affiliated militant group in Somalia. Al Shabaab has issued threats and carried out attacks against Kenya, in part, due to Kenyan military intervention in Somalia. See Regional risks.
\n\nRecent significant attacks include :
\n\nThere is some evidence of growing support for Daesh (formerly ISIL) in Kenya. On 4 January 2024 Daesh published a statement calling for a new global campaign of terrorism including a specific focus on western and Jewish targets. This statement and the ongoing conflict in Israel and Palestine could increase the likelihood of terrorist attacks that affect British nationals.
\n\nTravellers to Lamu Island and Manda Island should be particularly vigilant given the close proximity of these islands to the Lamu County mainland. You should only travel to the islands by air to Lamu airport (a civilian airport on Manda Island), and not by road. The only commercial option for air travel to or from Lamu Island and Manda Island is through Lamu airport. See Regional risks.
\n\nThere is a high threat of terrorist kidnap across Kenya. You should be alert to the heightened threat of terrorist kidnapping targeting westerners, including British nationals. Westerners have been the target of kidnaps in northern counties bordering Somalia and coastal counties. Further kidnaps are very likely.
\n\nBritish nationals are seen as legitimate targets, including tourists, humanitarian aid workers, journalists and business travellers. If you are kidnapped, the reason for your presence is unlikely to protect you or secure your safe release.
\n\nThe long-standing policy of the British government is not to make substantive concessions to hostage takers. The British government considers that paying ransoms and releasing prisoners builds the capability of terrorist groups and finances their activities. This can, in turn, increase the risk of further hostage-taking. The Terrorism Act (2000) makes payments to terrorists illegal.
\n\nProtests, demonstrations and strikes are common in Kenya, particularly in Nairobi. These events often cause traffic disruption and can lead to violence. A number of demonstrators have been injured and killed in recent years. The situation could change quickly, especially on key dates, such as anniversaries of previous protests. Stay away from political gatherings and large crowds and monitor local media to see when and where major protests are likely. Follow local news and the instructions of local authorities closely.
\n\nThere are frequent incidents of violent crime including mugging, armed robbery and carjacking, particularly in the large cities and on major highways.
\n\nAlthough uncommon, violent crimes have resulted in the deaths of British nationals, including during daylight hours.
\n\nAvoid walking alone in isolated areas, including in daylight. Criminals might target you directly, so be aware of your surroundings and make sure people know where you are and when you are due to return. The risks are higher in some areas of major cities.
\n\nIn Nairobi:
\n\nIn Mombasa:
\n\nCrime rates are often higher around the Christmas and New Year period so take extra precautions at this time of year.
\n\nBag-snatching is common in bus stations, railway stations and airports. Be vigilant and take note of any security advice given by your hotel, employer or your hosts. If you’re attacked, do not resist. Avoid carrying large sums of money or wearing expensive-looking jewellery or watches.
\n\nAlways drive with windows closed and doors locked. When driving outside of cities and in remote areas, consider driving in convoy. Avoid driving at night if possible. Carjackers may set up bogus checkpoints. See Transport risks.
\n\nBeware of thieves posing as police officers or private security guards. It’s a technique used by criminals to take charge of valuables, passports and vehicles and steal them. Always ask for identification.
\n\nDo not accept drinks or food from strangers in bars or clubs. Criminals spike drinks to weaken and confuse their victims and then commit theft or sexual assault.
\n\nThere has been an increase in cases of serious illness caused by alcoholic drinks containing methanol in popular travel destinations around the world.
\n\nEven small amounts of methanol can kill. It is not possible to identify methanol in alcoholic drinks by taste or smell. See Travel Aware Spiking and methanol poisoning for information about how to reduce the risks.
\n\nSeek urgent medical attention if you or someone you are travelling with show the signs of methanol poisoning after drinking.
\n\nSexual assaults are rare, but do happen, and can affect both male and female travellers.
\n\nCriminals can use dating apps to identify victims to rob or sexually assault. There has been an increase in criminals targeting LGBT+ travellers in particular. Be cautious when using social media and dating apps. If you decide to meet someone, meet in a well-lit, public place and make sure that someone knows where you are.
\n\nYou must always carry ID. A copy of your passport is normally acceptable, but police officers may insist on seeing the original document so keep it within a reasonable travelling distance.
\n\nThe coastal areas of Kenya are mainly Muslim. Show courtesy by dressing conservatively away from tourist resorts and hotels – particularly in Mombasa. Wearing holiday-style clothing is likely to get negative attention at religious sites or buildings.
\n\nIt is illegal to smoke in any public place in Kenya, except in designated smoking areas. If you smoke in a prohibited place, you could get a fine of up to 50,000 Kenyan shillings or up to 6 months in prison.
\n\nIf you’re convicted of using illegal drugs in Kenya, you will get a heavy fine and prison sentence. The penalty for possession is up to 10 years in prison. People found to be trafficking illegal drugs could face life imprisonment.
\n\nIt is illegal to take photographs of official buildings, including embassies, or at airports. You could be arrested if caught.
\n\nSame-sex sexual activity is illegal and same-sex relationships are not tolerated in Kenya’s conservative society. Showing affection in public could lead to arrest and imprisonment. See the ‘Social media and dating apps’ subheading for more advice.
\n\nRead more advice for LGBT+ travellers.
\n\nIt is illegal to buy, sell, kill or capture any protected wild animal or trade any of its parts without a licence. If you are caught buying or trafficking banned goods, you could face a fine or prison sentence.
\n\nIf you’re visiting game reserves, use reputable tour operators and arrive at your destination in daylight hours. Do not buy safari tours from touts. Always follow park regulations and advice from wardens.
\n\nThere are risks associated with viewing wildlife, particularly on foot or at close range. Swimming in rivers and lakes is illegal in national parks and is best avoided elsewhere due the dangers from wildlife and waterborne diseases.
\n\nYou must hire a local guide on certain hikes in Kenya. Be conscious of the risk from wildlife and do not approach wild animals. Make sure your travel insurance covers all your planned activities.
\n\nAltitude sickness is a risk when hiking in high-altitude areas, including on Mount Kenya. Read about altitude sickness on TravelHealthPro.
\n\nIf you are planning to drive in Kenya, see information on driving abroad.
\n\nYou can use a UK photocard driving licence in Kenya for up to 3 months. If you still have a paper driving licence, you may need to update it to a photocard licence.
\n\nAfter 3 months, you’ll need to have both the 1968 version of the international driving permit (IDP) and your UK driving licence with you in the car. You cannot buy an IDP outside the UK, so get one before you travel.
\n\nIf you’re staying longer or living in Kenya, you’ll need to get a Kenyan driving licence.
\n\nDriving standards are often poor. There is a risk of vehicle crime – see Crime.
\n\nFor travel between Jomo Kenyatta International Airport and Nairobi City, use the Mombasa Road or the Nairobi Expressway. There is a higher risk of carjacking on the old airport road (Airport South Road) and Jogoo Road.
\n\nThe Mombasa Road can get very busy during rush hour, and check-in can take several hours. Allow plenty of time to get to the airport. A vehicle security check outside the airport may add to your journey time.
\n\nMonitor local media and take care in all remote areas. The Kenya Tourism Federation Safety and Communication Center provides tourist advice and emergency help.
\n\nThere have been serious accidents involving long-distance buses and minibuses (‘matatus’). The accidents are often due to poor maintenance and speeding. Often minibuses are uninsured. Check operators’ safety standards.
\n\nThere are frequent minibus hijackings and robberies.
\n\nOn-the-spot fines from traffic police are common but illegal. If a traffic police officer stops you, ask them to issue you with the correct paperwork.
\n\nIf you charter a private aircraft, check with the company about the condition of the aircraft and runways. If the air crew does not include a safety pilot, qualified to take over the controls, find another company that does.
\n\nPassenger trains run between Nairobi and Mombasa. Take care of your belongings while on the train and at railway stations. If you leave your compartment, take your valuables with you.
\n\nPiracy and armed robbery off the coast of Somalia, in the Gulf of Aden and Indian Ocean remain a significant threat.
\n\nSee piracy and armed robbery at sea.
\n\nFind out what you can do to prepare for and respond to extreme weather and natural hazards.
\n\nKenya lies on an active fault and tremors occur from time to time. The last significant earthquake to affect the region was of magnitude 5.2 in 2007.
\n\nThe US Federal Emergency Management Agency has advice about what to do before, during and after an earthquake.
\n\n","slug":"safety-and-security","title":"Safety and security"},{"body":"This section has safety advice for regions of Kenya. It only covers regions where FCDO has specific advice.
\n\nYou should also read FCDO’s overall travel advice and safety and security advice.
\n\nDue to the risk of terrorism from groups based in Somalia, FCDO advises against all travel to:
\n\nFCDO advises against all but essential travel to:
\n\nThere have been frequent attacks in the north-eastern border regions, most of which were attributed to Al Shabaab.
\n\nAttacks have killed members of the Kenyan security forces as well as civilians. The Kenyan security forces have increased their presence in the affected areas. Armed militia groups operate within the Boni National Reserve and along the border with Somalia. See Terrorism.
\n\nIf you travel to Lamu Island or Manda Island, you should fly to Lamu Airport (a civilian airport on Manda Island). Do not travel by road. See Terrorism.
\n\nFor travel between Jomo Kenyatta International Airport and Nairobi City, you should use the Mombasa Road or the Nairobi Expressway. See Transport risks.
\n\nRural areas, particularly in the north and north-east of Kenya, occasionally experience cattle rustling, banditry and ethnic clashes. Foreign nationals are not usually the target, but you should take great care.
\n\nSecurity operations continue in parts of these counties due to banditry , cattle rustling and intercommunal violence. While previous dusk-to-dawn curfews have largely been lifted, movement restrictions may still be introduced during security operations, particularly in hotspots such as the Turkana–West Pokot border, Kerio Valley (Elgeyo-Marakwet) and remote areas of Samburu, and Baringo. Follow local security measures and use caution.
\n\nThere have been attacks using landmines around Moyale, close to the main A2 road south. Vehicles crossing the Kenya-Ethiopia border at this point should stay on the A2. Avoid staying at the rest house at Sololo – travel directly to Marsabit before breaking the journey.
\n\nThere is a significant security presence in Mount Elgon because of armed clashes. Further incidents are possible. Seek local advice before you set off.
\n\n","slug":"regional-risks","title":"Regional risks"},{"body":"Before you travel check that:
\n\nThis is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant.
\n\nDial 999 and ask for an ambulance.
\n\nContact your insurance company quickly if you’re referred to a medical facility for treatment.
\n\nAt least 8 weeks before your trip:
\n\nSee what health risks you’ll face in Kenya, including:
\n\nAltitude sickness is a risk in parts of Kenya. Read more about altitude sickness on TravelHealthPro.
\n\nThe legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or bought in the UK can be different in other countries.
\n\nRead best practice when travelling with medicines on TravelHealthPro.
\n\nFCDO has a list of medical facilities in Kenya.
\n\nThere is also guidance on healthcare if you’re living in Kenya.
\n\nRead FCDO guidance on travel and mental health. There is also mental health guidance on TravelHealthPro.
\n\n","slug":"health","title":"Health"},{"body":"The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) cannot provide tailored advice for individual trips. Read this travel advice and carry out your own research before deciding whether to travel.
\n\nTelephone: 999 (ambulance, fire, police)
\n\nKenya Tourism Federation’s Safety and Communication Center provides tourist advice and emergency help.
\n\nContact your travel provider and your insurer if you are involved in a serious incident or emergency abroad. They will tell you if they can help and what you need to do.
\n\nFor refunds or changes to travel, contact your travel provider. You may also be able to make a claim through insurance. However, insurers usually require you to talk to your travel provider first.
\n\nFind out more about changing or cancelling travel plans, including:
\n\nFCDO has guidance on staying safe and what to do if you need help or support abroad, including:
\n\nSee how to get help from the UK government abroad including in an emergency.
\n\nYou can call FCDO in London if you need urgent help because something has happened to a friend or relative abroad.
\n\nTelephone: 020 7008 5000 (24 hours)
\n\n\n\nSign up to get email notifications when this travel advice is updated.
\n\nFollow FCDO:
\n\nThe Overseas Business Risk service offers information and advice for British companies operating in Kenya on how to manage political, economic, and business security-related risks.
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