Kenya

There is an ongoing high threat of terrorist attacks in Kenya, including in Nairobi and coastal areas. Many people have been killed or injured in previous attacks in Nairobi, including in the 2019 attack on the DusitD2 hotel. Terrorist group al-Shabaab continues to threaten attacks. Further attacks are possible, and could happen at anytime. Kenyan authorities are still in a high state of alert.

If you are passing through Nairobi for other travel in Kenya (for example for a safari), we recommend you minimise your time spent there and be alert to safety risks. If you have to spend time in Nairobi, consider carefully the places known to be terrorist targets and the level of security provided. 

Terrorist acts could include:

• suicide bombings
• kidnappings
• roadside bomb attacks
• attacks on civil aviation

Possible attack targets

An attack could happen anywhere in Kenya.

Areas prone to terrorist attack include:

• Nairobi, Mombasa, Lamu County, coastal areas
• Tana River and Kilifi Counties — extending 65km inland in Tana River county, and 20km inland in Kilifi county
• Kenya's border regions with Somalia, Ethiopia and South Sudan — including all of Mandera and Garissa counties and the part of Wajir county extending from the town of Wajir eastwards to the border with Somalia

Terrorists may target:

• Western embassies, UN premises and international schools
• hotels, tourist resorts, beaches and safari lodges
• shopping areas, markets, bars, nightclubs, restaurants and cafes
• churches and other places of worship
• offices of non-government organisations (NGOs) and government buildings

Terrorists may also target transport and transport infrastructure such as:

• airports and commercial airlines
• transport hubs and infrastructure
• sea vessels in or near Kenyan ports

Western aid workers may be targeted at refugee camps near the Kenya-Somalia border.

Likely times for attacks

An attack is possible at any time.

Past terror attacks

A major terrorist attack on the DusitD2 Hotel complex in Nairobi in January 2019 resulted in 21 deaths.

Many terrorist attacks have occurred in Kenya in the past few years:

• In August 2018, 10 Kenyan soldiers died in Lamu after multiple attacks.
• In September and October 2017, people died in gun attacks in Kwale county on Kenya's South Coast.
• Since May 2017, more than 70 people have died in attacks in Lamu, Mandera and Garissa counties.
• In October 2016, a guard was attacked at the US Embassy in Nairobi.
• In October 2016, 12 people died in an attack on a guesthouse in Mandera town.
• In September 2016, 3 militants died in an attack on Mombasa Central Police Station.

Security

Due to security concerns, Australian High Commission staff in Nairobi are on high alert.

Security has been increased for travel to Kenyan Government buildings, the CBD and areas north of Mombasa.

Consider likely terrorist targets and the level of security provided. 

Always be alert to possible threats, especially in public places.

Report any suspicious items or activities to police.

To protect yourself when attending sporting events and public gatherings:

• be alert, especially at football matches
• avoid catching public transport
• avoid public venues that show sporting events such as sports bars, nightclubs and restaurants

To reduce your risks:

• take official warnings seriously
• monitor the media for threats
• follow the instructions of local authorities

If there's a terrorist attack:

• leave the affected area immediately if it's safe
• avoid the area afterwards in case of more attacks

Don't gather in groups after an attack. This also applies if you're evacuated from a building for security reasons, such as a bomb threat.

Terrorism is a threat worldwide.

More information:

• Terrorism

Westerners are targets for kidnapping in Kenya.

Armed groups from Somalia have kidnapped Western aid workers in the Somalia border region. They have also kidnapped foreigners and residents in coastal resorts and towns in eastern Kenya, especially Lamu county.

Kidnapping is a high threat in these regions for:

• humanitarian workers
• journalists
• tourists
• expats

The Australian Government's longstanding policy is that it doesn’t make payments or concessions to kidnappers.

If despite this advice, you're travelling to an area where there's a high kidnapping threat:

• get professional security advice
• arrange personal security measures

More information:

• Kidnapping

Public protests and events that draw large groups of people can turn violent.

Large demonstrations can happen in Kenya during and after international events or political changes.

Demonstrations resulting in violence and arrests have happened over:

• high food prices
• alleged corruption
• controversial media and tax law changes

Violent outbreaks are more common away from tourist areas. However, riots and clashes have happened in:

• Mombasa
• Nairobi
• Kisumu
• other urban centres

Violent clashes along the A2 Highway between Isiolo and Moyale have caused several deaths and injuries. If you choose to travel along this road, be extra careful.

During periods of unrest:

• be cautious throughout Kenya
• avoid large gatherings, protests and demonstrations
• monitor the media for reports about unrest
• avoid affected areas
• follow instructions from local authorities

More information:

• Demonstrations and civil unrest

Crime is high in Kenya.

Incidents of armed robbery, carjacking, kidnapping and muggings are possible in:

• Nairobi and other urban centres
• beach resorts
• northern Kenya
• the northern Rift Valley
• coastal regions north of Mombasa

Don't resist.

If you travel to remote areas, border regions, or coastal regions, you risk being attacked or kidnapped.

Crime increases during holiday periods.

Petty crime

Thieves snatch jewellery and bags from open vehicle windows, most often while cars are stopped at traffic lights or in heavy traffic.

Groups of bag-snatchers and carjackers on motorbikes target pedestrians and motorists.

Robberies have occurred on trains and buses.

To protect yourself from theft:

• always keep vehicle doors locked, windows up and valuables out of sight, even when moving
• secure your accommodation, even when you're in it
• avoid walking after dark

If you're attacked, don't resist.

Violent crime

Violent criminals often target Westerners in Nairobi. Crimes include:

• armed carjackings
• kidnapping
• home invasions

Reports suggest foreigners are being targeted in private homes in Nairobi, tourist areas and while travelling by road. Several incidents have occurred at night outside residential security gates.

Some Australians have been killed in home invasions.

Violent crime is extremely common in the Nairobi suburbs of Buruburu, Eastleigh, Kasarani, Kibera, Mathare, Pangani, South B and South C, as well as the CBD.

If you're living in Kenya, invest in strong personal security measures. Regularly review your personal security arrangements.

Due to widespread HIV/AIDS, if you're a victim of violent crime such as rape, visit a doctor immediately.

Herder clashes

Violent herder clashes are common in central and north central Kenya. These clashes are aimed at either private ranches or wildlife conservation parks.

Herders are often armed and violent towards property, wildlife and, in some cases, landowners.

Travellers haven't been targeted. However, a dual British-Kenyan landowner was killed in March 2017. A Swiss national was killed in April 2017.

The government has increased security in Nyandarua and Laikpia countries.

Crime in outlying areas

Clashes between local groups have occasionally caused violence in north and north-eastern Kenya. Clashes have also happened in the Mount Elgon region of western Kenya.

If you're travelling to north, north-eastern or western Kenya, first ask the police for advice. Travel in a convoy or with a police escort.

Armed attacks, violent cattle rustling and counter raids are common along the Kenya-Ethiopia border and the Kenya-South Sudan border.

Reports suggest there are bandit groups and robbers at unauthorised border crossing points on the borders with Uganda and Tanzania. Back roads from Nairobi to the Tanzania border are hotspots for robbery and bandit groups.

The region bordering Somalia is extremely dangerous.

If you plan to travel to central and northern Kenya, get up-to-date advice on security and other conditions from your tour operator before you travel.

Police crossfire

Police regularly confront criminal suspects in public places. Random gunfire has killed or wounded bystanders in crowded areas.

Scams and fraud

Scams are common. Criminals often use fake police, hotel and government identification to extort money from travellers.

To protect yourself:

• be wary of demands for money, including from people claiming to be police or officials
• always ask for and carefully check identification

Serious incidents in Kenya's national parks and conservation areas are rare. However, crime happens.

Visitors to the Ngong Forest Reserve and Ngong Hills risk being robbed. In June 2017, thieves robbed tourists at gunpoint in the Samburu National Reserve north of Nairobi.

If you plan to visit national parks or game reserves:

• get local advice on security risks, park fees and other conditions before you travel
• get recommendations on travel firms and guides from the Kenya Association of Tour Operators (KATO)
• only use registered tour operators with a good reputation
• get an armed escort from the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) for any travel to Ngong Forest Reserve or Ngong Hills
• follow all park regulations and instructions from local authorities and park wardens

Transport and tour operators don't always follow safety and maintenance standards. This includes adventure activities, such as diving.

If you plan to do an adventure activity:

• check if your travel insurance policy covers it
• use registered tour operators with a good reputation
• ask about and insist on minimum safety requirements
• always use available safety gear, such as life jackets or seatbelts

If proper safety equipment isn't available, use another provider.

Kenya can experience natural disasters and severe weather, including:

• flash flooding
• mudslides
• drought
• earthquakes
• volcanic activity
• tsunamis

If a natural disaster occurs:

• secure your passport in a safe, waterproof place
• monitor local media and other sources such as the Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System
• follow the advice of local authorities
• keep in contact with your friends and family

Flooding

Kenya has 2 rainy seasons, from March to June, and October to November, Flash flooding and mudslides are common. Roads may close.

Drought

Northern and eastern Kenya is currently in severe drought. Essential services may be affected. Expect delays when travelling in these areas.

Earthquakes and volcanoes

Kenya lies on a fault line, and sometimes experiences earthquakes and tremors.

Volcanic activity and earthquakes can happen near Mt Elgon on the Kenya-Uganda border.

Get to know earthquake safety measures for each place you stay.

Tsunamis

Tsunamis can occur in Kenya's coastal areas.

To receive tsunami alerts, register with the Global Disaster Alert and Co-ordination System.

Move to high ground right away if local or regional authorities tell you to, or if you:

• feel a strong earthquake that makes it hard to stand up
• feel a weak, rolling earthquake that lasts a minute or more
• see a sudden rise or fall in sea level
• hear loud and unusual noises from the sea

Don't wait for official warnings. Once on high ground, monitor local media.

Get comprehensive travel insurance before you leave. Your policy needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation. The Australian Government won't pay for these costs.

If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. This applies to everyone, no matter how healthy and fit you are.

If you're not insured, you may have to pay many 1000s of dollars up-front for medical care.

Confirm:

• what activities and care your policy covers
• that your insurance covers you for the whole time you'll be away

Consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition.

See your doctor or travel clinic to:

• have a basic health check-up
• ask if your travel plans may affect your health
• plan any vaccinations you need

Do this at least 8 weeks before you leave.

More information:

• General health advice
• International travel and health

Not all medication available over the counter or by prescription in Australia is available in other countries. Some may be considered illegal or a controlled substance, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.

If you plan to bring medication, check if it's legal in Kenya. Take enough legal medicine for your trip.

Carry a copy of your prescription or a letter from your doctor stating:

• what the medicine is
• how much you'll take
• that it's for personal use

More information:

• Medication

Insect-borne diseases

Yellow fever is widespread in Kenya. Yellow fever is a potentially fatal virus spread by mosquitoes. It's prevented by vaccination. Get vaccinated before you travel.

Malaria is widespread except in Nairobi and at altitudes above 2500m.

Other insect-borne diseases occur, such as: 

• dengue
• Rift Valley fever
• filariasis
• African sleeping sickness

To protect yourself from disease:

• make sure your accommodation is insect-proof
• use insect repellent
• wear long, loose, light-coloured clothing
• consider taking medication to prevent malaria.

Visit a doctor if you develop either a fever, muscle pain, a rash or a bad headache.

HIV/AIDS

HIV/AIDS infection rates are very high.

Take precautions if taking part in activities that put you at risk of infection.

Polio

Polio outbreaks happen in Kenya.

Check your vaccination status for polio with a doctor or travel clinic. Do this at least 8 weeks before you travel.

If you aren't vaccinated, complete the full course of vaccinations before you leave. If you've been vaccinated in the past, get a booster dose if needed.

More information:

• Australian Immunisation Handbook

Other health risks

Waterborne, foodborne and other infectious diseases are common. These include:

• hepatitis
• meningococcal disease
• measles
• cholera
• tuberculosis

Serious outbreaks occur from time to time.

To protect yourself from illness:

• drink boiled water or bottled water with sealed lids
• avoid ice cubes
• avoid raw and undercooked food, such as salads
• don't swim in fresh water

Get medical advice if you have a fever or diarrhoea.

Medical facilities

Medical facility standards vary. Medical facilities are adequate in urban areas but may be extremely limited in other places.

Before receiving treatment, public and private facilities need either:

• an up-front deposit
• a payment guarantee, or
• medical insurance confirmation

If you become seriously ill or injured in a remote area, you'll need to be evacuated to a major city. Medical evacuation can be  very expensive.

There's a decompression chamber at the Kenyan Naval Base in Mombasa.

You're subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that may appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling.

If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our Consular Services Charter. But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.

Drugs

Penalties for drug offences can be severe and include long jail terms.

More information:

• Carrying or using drugs

Commercial surrogacy

Get legal advice in Australia and Kenya before going to Kenya for commercial surrogacy arrangements.

More information:

• Going overseas for international surrogacy
• Going overseas to adopt

Other laws

In Kenya it's illegal to:

• work or volunteer without a valid work permit
• destroy local currency
• smoke in public places outside designated smoking areas
• take photos of official buildings — get advice before taking photos
• possess ivory, even jewellery purchased outside of Kenya
• distribute religious material in public without a licence

It's also illegal for men to have same-sex relations.

More information:

• Advice for LGBTI travellers

Some Australian criminal laws apply overseas. If you commit these offences, you may be prosecuted in Australia.

More information:

• Staying within the law and respecting customs

Kenya recognises dual nationality. However, Kenya has not yet fully enacted dual nationality laws.

If you're a dual citizen, this limits the consular services we can give if you're arrested or detained.

Always travel on your Australian passport.

More information:

• Dual nationals

Kenya has conservative dress and behaviour standards, especially in coastal and rural areas. Take care not to offend.

The Islamic holiday month of Ramadan will be from late April to late May in 2020. Respect religious and cultural customs and laws at this time. Muslims don't eat, drink or smoke between sunrise and sunset during Ramadan.

Some people are against same-sex relationships and being affectionate in public. Displays of affection can lead to harrassment,particularly for same-sex couples.

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders.

Make sure you meet all entry and exit conditions. If you don't, the Australian Government can't help you.

You need a visa to travel to Kenya. Kenya has an e-visa portal for tourists and other visitors.

Entry and exit requirements can change at short notice. Contact the Kenyan High Commission for details about visas, currency, customs and quarantine rules.

Yellow fever vaccination

You'll need a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate to enter Kenya. Some airlines may want to see one when you leave.

Find out about returning to Australia after exposure to yellow fever.

More information:

• Countries with a risk of yellow fever (PDF 74KB)

Import and export restrictions

Kenya has strict laws about importing or exporting certain goods, including:

• firearms
• religious materials and antiquities
• medication
• business equipment
• ivory
• currency

More information:

• Kenyan High Commission

Identity card for foreigners

If you're a foreign resident, always carry your alien identity card. If you don't, you could be fined or jailed.

Working in Kenya

It's illegal to work without a valid visa. Authorities can fine or jail you for paid or volunteer work.

To work in the charity sector, get a valid work permit through the Charity Register. 

More information:

• Living or working overseas

Validity

Some countries won't let you enter unless your passport is valid for 6 months after you plan to leave that country. This can apply even if you're just transiting or stopping over.

Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.

You can end up stranded if your passport is not valid for more than 6 months.

The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport's expiry date before you travel. If you're not sure it'll be valid for long enough, consider getting a new passport.

Lost or stolen passport

Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.

Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.

If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible:

• In Australia, contact the Australian Passport Information Service.
• If you're overseas, contact the nearest Australian embassy or consulate.

The local currency is the Kenyan Shilling (KES). Kenya is introducing new banknotes. Starting from 1 October 2019, the old one-thousand shilling note will not be legal tender and other notes will be phased out.

More information:

• Central bank  

Declare all amounts over US$10,000 when you arrive and depart. This covers all forms of currency, not only cash.

Large banks and foreign exchange bureaus accept traveller's cheques. Hotels don't often accept them.

ATMs in Nairobi and major towns accept international credit cards.

Take care when paying with credit cards or using ATMs. Card skimming incidents are increasing.

Only use ATMs at large shopping centres or in banks. Check the machine for unusual parts before you use it.

Always keep your card in sight during transactions.

Ask your bank if your cards will work in Kenya.

Driving permit

To drive in Kenya, you'll need both:

• a valid Australian driver's licence
• an International Driving Permit (IDP)

Get your IDP before leaving Australia.

Road travel

You're 6 times more likely to die in a motor vehicle accident in Kenya than in Australia.

Hazards include:

• poor road conditions
• unsafe and poorly maintained vehicles
• not enough street lighting

Before you drive:

• get to know local traffic laws and practices
• check local information on road conditions, including security risks and road closures
• avoid travel at night on major highways in and out of Nairobi and on rural roads

More information:

• Driving or riding

Motorcycles

Check if your travel insurance policy covers you when using a motorbike or similar vehicle. 

Always wear a helmet.

Taxis

Only use official taxis and limousine services. Arrange these through your hotel.

Only use radio taxis from official taxi stands or via callout.

When travelling at night to and from Nairobi's airports (JKIA and Wilson), always use a tour or taxi company with a good reputation.

Public transport

Avoid public transport. Public transport options such as buses and minivans ('matutus') are dangerous.

Bus terminals and other transport hubs have been targeted in terrorist and criminal attacks. There are risks of further attacks.

Theft is common on trains. Passengers' belongings have been taken from their compartments. Watch your belongings at all times.

Boat travel

Pirates have attacked ships to the north of Kenya. These attacks have happened around Somalia's waters and the Gulf of Aden.

Don't travel within 1000 nautical miles (1850km) of Somalia's coast. Somali pirates have attacked ships further out than this.

If you travel in Kenyan waters, despite the risks:

• first check the International Maritime Bureau's piracy reports
• arrange personal security measures
• be alert to threats

Air travel

Enhanced security checks are in place at Kenyan airports. Allow at least an hour to get through security.

DFAT doesn't provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.

Check Kenya's air safety profile with the Aviation Safety Network.

More information:

• Air travel

Depending on what you need, contact your:

• family and friends
• travel agent
• insurance provider
• employer
• airline

Fire and rescue services

Call 999.

Medical emergencies

Call 999 or go to the nearest hospital.

Police

Call 999 or visit the nearest police station.

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

Contact your provider with any complaints about tourist services or products.

For more information on tourist safety, contact:

Kenya Tourism Federation (Safety and Communication Centre)

Phone: (+254) 20 800 100

Email: operations@ktf.co.ke

Check the Consular Services Charter to find out what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.

For consular assistance, contact the Australian High Commission in Nairobi.

Australian High Commission, Nairobi

Limuru Road, Rosslyn 

Nairobi, Kenya

Phone: (+254) 20 4277 100

Fax: (+254) 20 4277 139

Website: kenya.highcommission.gov.au

Facebook: Australia in East Africa 

Twitter: @AusHCKenya

Check the High Commission website for details about opening hours and any temporary closures.

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

• +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
• 1300 555 135 in Australia