Kenya

There's an ongoing high threat of terrorist attacks in Kenya. 

Terrorist group al-Shabaab continues to threaten attacks. Further attacks are possible and could happen at any time, including in areas popular with foreigners and tourists. Kenyan authorities remain on high alert.

Terrorist acts could include: 

• suicide bombings
• shootings
• kidnappings
• roadside bomb attacks and improvised explosive devices
• attacks on civil aviation

Possible attack targets

An attack could happen anywhere in Kenya. An attack is possible at any time.

Historically there has been an upsurge in terrorist activities and heightened threat warnings around religious and festive holidays as well as anniversary dates of previous attacks, such as 11 September, the 21 September Westgate Mall attack and the 7 October Hamas attack against Israel. Remain vigilant if visiting public areas.

Areas prone to terrorist attacks include:

• Nairobi
• Coastal areas, including all of Lamu County, and areas of Tana River and Kilifi Counties, extending 65km inland in Tana River County and 50km inland in Kilifi County north of the Galana-Sabaki River
• 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:

• shopping areas, including malls and markets
• bars, nightclubs, restaurants and cafes
• foreign embassies, UN premises and international schools
• hotels, tourist resorts, beaches and safari lodges
• places of worship
• offices of non-government organisations (NGOs) and government buildings, including educational institutions
• refugee camps

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

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

Terrorist attacks have occurred in Kenya in the past few years, including in Lamu, Mandera and Garissa counties.

Security

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 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 to do so
• 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

Protests and large gatherings are common. Security forces may use rubber bullets, tear gas, water cannons and, at times, live ammunition, which can result in fatalities and injuries. Expect road closures and traffic disruption, including to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport. Opportunistic crime can occur on the margins of protests, including looting, robberies and assaults.

Large demonstrations can happen in Kenya during and after international events, unpopular government policy decisions or political changes. Public protests and events that draw large groups of people can turn violent.

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

• Mombasa
• Nairobi
• Kisumu
• other urban centres

During periods of unrest:

• be cautious throughout Kenya
• avoid large crowds, protests and demonstrations
• expect heavy security measures
• limit your movements and avoid affected areas, including areas around government buildings
• monitor the media for reports about unrest
• plan for interruptions to phone and internet services
• contact your airline or tour operator to confirm arrangements before you travel
• be aware authorities may order curfews in response to civil unrest at short notice
• follow instructions from local authorities

More information:

• Demonstrations and civil unrest

Kidnapping occurs across the world with political, ideological, and criminal motives. Foreigners, including Australians, have been kidnapped overseas while travelling. Kidnaps can happen anywhere, anytime, including destinations that are typically at lower risk.

Several active terrorist groups have the intent and capability to kidnap foreigners. Armed groups from Somalia have kidnapped aid workers in the Somalia border region. Foreigners and residents have been the target of kidnapping in coastal resorts and towns in the North Eastern region (Mandera, Wajir and Garissa counties), Lamu county and areas within Tana River and Kilifi Counties.

Kidnapping is a high threat in these regions for:

• humanitarian workers
• journalists
• tourists
• expats
• missionaries

If despite our advice, you travel to an area with a high risk of kidnapping, be aware that our ability to provide consular assistance in these destinations is limited. 

You are responsible for your own safety. To reduce the risk of kidnapping:

• always be alert to your personal security and surroundings - avoid distractions. Be prepared to stop or take evasive action if you sense danger
• get professional security advice for travel in locations with a heightened kidnap risk. It is essential to have a contingency plan
• check your accommodation has appropriate security measures
• vary your movements so you don't set predictable patterns
• keep a low profile – including online. Drawing attention to yourself in high-risk areas may signal to criminals that you have something worth taking
• avoid isolated locations, particularly when travelling alone. There is safety in numbers, and you should try to travel with someone else, especially at night
• notify family or friends of planned travel; share your location and emergency contacts that they can rely on if something happens
• avoid talking about your money or business affairs
• use ATMs in public places and during daylight hours
• avoid giving personal details to strangers online or over the phone. Criminals have been known to search social media for victims
• If you are confronted by armed criminals, it is best to surrender and cooperate – resistance tends to make the situation worse

The Australian Government's longstanding policy is that it doesn't make payments or concessions to kidnappers. Ransom payments to kidnappers have funded further terrorist attacks and criminal activity. Ransom payments to terrorist groups are likely to contravene Australian counter-terrorism financing laws. 

More information:

• Reducing the risk of kidnapping (Smartraveller)
• Scams that affect travellers (Smartraveller)
• Reducing the risk of piracy (Smartraveller)

Crime is high in most regions of Kenya, particularly in major cities such as Nairobi, Mombasa and Kisumu, and at coastal beach resorts. Crime rates increase during holiday periods.

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

• Nairobi and other urban centres (e.g. Mombasa)
• some coastal regions, including all of Lamu County, and areas of Tana River and Kilifi Counties
• North Eastern region (Mandera, Wajir and Garissa counties)
• Some parts of North Rift and Central Rift regions (Turkana, West Pokot, Elgeyo Marakwet, Baringo, Laikipia and Samburu counties)

Petty crime

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

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

Robberies also occur on trains and buses.

To protect yourself from theft:

• hold bags and backpacks in front of you or in ways that make them harder to snatch
• Take care crossing the street or walking along footpaths
• be aware of motorbikes approaching from behind as you walk on the footpath
• hold bags and backpacks in front of you or in ways that make them harder to snatch
• be prepared to surrender your valuables rather than risk being injured in a struggle
• always keep vehicle doors locked, windows up and valuables out of sight, even when moving
• secure your accommodation, even when you're inside
• avoid walking after dark
• avoid walking in isolated back-alleys and lanes

Violent crime

Violent crimes include:

• armed carjackings
• kidnapping
• home invasions

Foreigners have been targeted in private homes in Nairobi, tourist areas and while travelling by road. Incidents have also occurred at night outside residential security gates.

Violent crime is particularly common in the Nairobi suburbs of Eastleigh and Kibera. Take extra precautions in these areas.

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

Do not physically resist any robbery attempt.

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

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

Attacks and sexual assault

Sexual assaults can affect both male and female travellers.

Victims of sexual assault may have difficulty receiving adequate social or medical support. While sexual assault is mostly frequently associated with females, sexual assault of men also occurs in Kenya and often goes unreported because of the stigma attached to this type of assault.

Crime in outlying areas

Incidents involving banditry and cattle rustling can occur in North and Central Rift regions (Turkana, West Pokot, Elgeyo Marakwet, Baringo, Laikipia and Samburu counties).

The region bordering Somalia is extremely dangerous.

Curfews and security operations can be instituted without prior notice in the North Rift and parts of Central Rift regions.

If you plan to travel to these areas get up-to-date advice on security and other conditions from your tour operator before you travel. Monitor the media for latest developments, maintain a high level of vigilance and leave restricted areas as soon as possible.

Scams and fraud

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

To protect yourself:

• be wary of demands for money or personal information, including from people claiming to be police or officials. Always ask for and carefully check identification
• be wary of fake bank notes in circulation

Cyber security 

You may be at risk of cyber-based threats during overseas travel to any country. Digital identity theft is a growing concern. Your devices and personal data can be compromised, especially if you’re connecting to Wi-Fi, using or connecting to shared or public computers, or to Bluetooth.

Social media can also be risky in destinations where there are social or political tensions, or laws that may seem unreasonable by Australian standards. Travellers have been arrested for things they have said on social media. Don't comment on local or political events on your social media.

More information:

• Cyber security when travelling overseas

Be alert to the potential risks around drink spiking and methanol poisoning through consuming alcoholic drinks. See our advice on partying safely while overseas.

Some criminals target foreigners with food and drink spiking. Their motivations can be for assault, including sexual assault, and theft.

To protect yourself:

• never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers
• be wary of accepting snacks, beverages, gum or cigarettes from new acquaintances

Get urgent medical attention if you think you or someone else has been drugged.

Methanol can be used in unregulated alcohol production to lower costs. Methanol is highly toxic. As little as one shot can be fatal. Act quickly if you suspect you or someone you're travelling with has been poisoned. Urgent medical attention could save your life or save you from permanent disability. Report suspected cases of methanol poisoning to the police.

• be careful drinking cocktails and drinks made with spirits
• drink only at reputable licensed premises
• avoid home-made alcoholic drinks
• labels on bottles aren't always accurate

More information:

• Partying safely while overseas 

Crime occurs Kenya's national parks and conservation areas but is rarely serious.

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
• respect local wildlife laws and maintain a safe distance when observing wildlife
• 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 the activity
• 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.

Information on tourism, road conditions and emergency regional assistance is available from the Kenya Tourism Federation Safety and Communication Centre. Phone: +254 (0)722 074 564 5 or +254 (0) 738 617 499

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 traditionally has two rainy seasons: from March to June and October to November. Flash flooding and mudslides are common. Roads may close. If flooding occurs:

• exercise caution
• monitor local news and weather reports
• follow the advice of local authorities

Drought

Northern and eastern Kenya often experience drought. 

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 thousands 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.

If you have immediate concerns for your welfare, or the welfare of another Australian, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or contact your nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate to discuss counselling hotlines and services available in your location.

More information:

• General health advice
• Healthy holiday tips (Healthdirect Australia)

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 medication for your trip.

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

• what the medication is
• your required dosage
• that it's for personal use

More information:

• Medication

Mpox (formerly known as monkeypox)

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has declared the current mpox outbreak in parts of Africa as a global public health emergency. It has now spread across a number of countries in Africa, including Kenya.

Mpox can be transmitted to humans through physical contact with an infectious person, infected animals or contaminated materials.

Symptoms include:

• rash
• fever
• sore throat
• headache
• muscle aches
• back pain
• low energy
• swollen lymph nodes

Seek professional medical advice on mpox vaccines.

Maintain strict hygiene standards. Avoid physical contact with anyone who has mpox.

See a doctor if you feel unwell and isolate from others if you develop any mpox symptoms.

More information:

• mpox (Australian Government)
• Infectious diseases

Insect-borne diseases

Yellow fever is widespread in Kenya. Yellow fever is a potentially fatal virus spread by mosquitos. It's prevented by vaccination. Get vaccinated before you travel and take your yellow fever vaccination certificate with you to Kenya. 

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

Other insect-borne diseases occur, including: 

• Dengue virus infection
• Rift Valley fever
• Lymphatic 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.

Other health risks

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

• hepatitis
• meningococcal disease
• measles
• cholera
• tuberculosis
• COVID-19

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 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:

• an up-front payment, or
• 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

LGBTQIA+ travellers

Kenyan law prohibits sexual acts between individuals of the same sex. Those convicted can face lengthy prison sentences.

More information:

• Advice for LGBTQIA+ travellers

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
• distribute religious material in public without a licence
• use, manufacture or import plastic bags, including garbage bags and shopping bags

More information:

• https://www.nema.go.ke/images/Docs/Notices/FAQS_Editd_FINAL_2.pdf 

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. You should dress modestly; wear loose-fitting clothing that covers your shoulders, knees, midriff, chest and back. Take care not to offend.

The Islamic holy month of Ramadan is observed in Kenya. Respect religious and cultural customs and laws at this time. Muslims don't eat, drink or smoke between sunrise and sunset during Ramadan.  If you're not fasting, avoid these activities around people who are. Seek local advice to avoid offence.

Explore our Ramadan page to learn more, including dates for Ramadan.

Public displays of affection can lead to harassment, particularly for same-sex couples.

More information:

• Going overseas for major events

Visas

To enter Kenya you'll need to apply online  and pay for an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) prior to arrival. Check the Kenya State Department of Immigration and Citizen Services for information on categories of persons exempted from applying for the ETA.

For Kenyan visa and permit information, visit the ETA Kenya and Kenya Civil Aviation Authority websites.  

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

Border measures

If you enter Kenya with flu-like symptoms, you may need to take a COVID-19 test at your own expense. If your test is positive, you may need to isolate. For more information on COVID-19 travel requirements see: Kenyan Civil Aviation Authority.

Yellow fever vaccination

Yellow Fever is widespread. If you're coming from a yellow fever-endemic country, you'll need a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate to enter Kenya, or transit through Kenya for 12 hours or longer. Some airlines may want to see a certificate when you leave.

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

More information:

• Yellow fever - (Department of Health and Aged Care)
• Yellow fever - African Region (WHO)
• Kenyan Airports (Kenyan Airports Authority)

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 in Australia

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 voluntary work.

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

For information on work permits and residency, check the Kenyan Department of Immigration requirements.

Foreign journalists seeking to work in Kenya must apply for accreditation through the Media Council of Kenya portal.

More information:

• Living or working overseas

Validity

To enter Kenya, your passport must have an expiry date at least 6 months after the date you arrive and at least two blank pages. 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, high commission or consulate.

Passport with 'X' gender identifier

Although Australian passports comply with international standards for sex and gender, we can't guarantee that a passport showing 'X' in the sex field will be accepted for entry or transit by another country. Contact the nearest Kenyan High Commission before you arrive at the border to confirm if authorities will accept passports with 'X' gender markers. 

More information:  

• LGBTQIA+ travellers 

The local currency is the Kenyan Shilling (KES). 

More information:

• Kenya Shilling banknotes (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, but they can be difficult to cash and attract high fees. Hotels don't usually accept them.

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.

M-PESA is a common form of electronic funds transfer accepted across Kenya, including at national parks. National parks do not accept cash and generally accept credit cards, but at times, due to technical difficulties, only payment via M-PESA is accepted.

National parks

To access National Parks in Kenya, you'll to pay for entry via the KWS eCitizen platform.

Driving permit

To drive in Kenya, you'll need both:

• a valid Australian driver's licence (digital driver's licences may not be accepted)
• an International Driving Permit (IDP)

Get your IDP before leaving Australia.

Road travel

Kenya records thousands of road fatalities each year. You're 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 established and reputable taxis and limousine services. Arrange these through your hotel.

Only use 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

Public transport options such as buses and minivans ('matatus') 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 many train routes. Passengers' belongings have been taken from their compartments. Watch your belongings at all times.

Boat travel

If you travel in Kenyan waters:

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

Air travel

Strikes at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi can occur with little notice. Check airline websites for any delays or check with your travel provider. Get to the airport early to ensure you have enough time to clear security and immigration.

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.

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

Website: kenya.highcommission.gov.au
Facebook: Australia in East Africa 
X: @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