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. Kenyan authorities remain on high alert.

On 9 February 2023, the US Embassy issued a security alert warning locations frequented by US citizens and other foreigners and tourists in Nairobi and elsewhere in Kenya continue to be targets to terrorist planning to conduct potentially imminent attacks.

Terrorist acts could include: 

• suicide bombings and 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.

Areas prone to terrorist attack 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:

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

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.

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

Security

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

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
• 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

Armed groups from Somalia have kidnapped aid workers in the Somalia border region. Foreigners and residents in coastal resorts and towns in the North Eastern region (Mandera, Wajir and Garissa counties), as well as Lamu county, have been the target of kidnapping.

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.

During periods of unrest:

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

Crime is high in Kenya.

Incidents of armed robbery, carjacking, kidnapping and muggings 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).

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 also occur 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
• 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. Several incidents have occurred at night outside residential security gates.

Violent crime is common in the Nairobi suburbs of Eastleigh and Kibera.

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.

Food and drink spiking

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.

More information:

• Partying safely

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.

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

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

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
• 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.

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 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 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. Consider whether you may be in a vulnerable category for COVID-19.

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)
• COVID-19 vaccines (Department of Health and Aged Care)

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

More information:

• Medication

COVID-19

COVID-19 remains a risk in Kenya. Monitor the media for latest developments on COVID-19 and follow the advice of local officials. 

For information on Kenya's COVID-19 vaccination program, refer to the COVID-19 Self Service Portal. You should consult your local health professional for advice on vaccine options, including assistance that may be available locally. The Australian Government cannot provide advice on the safety, quality and efficacy of vaccines that have been approved for use outside of Australia's regulatory process.

More information:

• COVID-19 Vaccination Updates (Kenyan Ministry of Health)
• Kenya Ministry of Health
• Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic (Australian Department of Health and Aged Care)

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 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.

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.

The COVID-19 crisis has tested the Kenyan health system. Consider how the availability of essential healthcare such as intensive care units and oxygen in your locality could impact you.

Before receiving treatment, public and private facilities need either:

• an up-front payment
• 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
• distribute religious material in public without a licence.

It's also illegal to have same-sex relationships.

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

The Islamic holiday 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.

Visas

For information on Kenyan visas and permits visit the Directorate of Immigration website.

You need a visa to travel to Kenya. Kenyan entry visas are only issued electronically, with passengers required to obtain their e-visas before arrival. You can apply for single entry and transit visas on the e-visas website.

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

Border measures

To enter Kenya, you must have a valid COVID-19 vaccination certificate with a QR code or a negative PCR test conducted not more than 72 hours before departure. If you're under 18 years of age you're exempt from the vaccination certificate or PCR test requirements. See the Kenya Airport Authority website for further detail on exemptions, required documentation and associated costs (for example, PCR and RAT tests).

You're required to upload your certificate of COVID-19 vaccination to the Global Haven partnership verification tool. If you have flu-like symptoms, you also need to complete the online health surveillance form and take a COVID-19 test on arrival at your own cost.

You don't need a negative COVID-19 PCR test to board domestic flights. 

Some destinations may require a negative COVID-19 test to enter or transit. You must undertake a COVID-19 test at an approved testing laboratory. You won't be allowed to depart Kenya if your certificate hasn't been verified.

If you're travelling out of Kenya, you'll be required to abide by the health requirements of the destination country and any transit countries.

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:

• Yellow fever - African Region (WHO)
• Kenyan Airports and the Corona Virus: Kenya 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

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. 

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, 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 embassy, high commission or consulate of your destination before you arrive at the border to confirm if authorities will accept passports with 'X' gender markers.

The local currency is the Kenyan Shilling (KES). 

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

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

Enhanced security and COVID-19 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.

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 

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