Can Americans fly to Kenya?

Can I travel to Kenya from the United States? Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Kenya.



Yes, Americans can absolutely fly to Kenya in 2026, but the entry process has changed significantly recently. Kenya has replaced its traditional visa system with the Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA). All U.S. citizens must apply for this eTA online through the official government portal at least three days before departure. The process involves uploading a passport photo, flight itinerary, and proof of accommodation. Kenya is a high-value destination for Americans seeking world-class safaris in the Maasai Mara or the white sands of Diani Beach. There are even direct, non-stop flights from New York (JFK) to Nairobi (NBO) operated by Kenya Airways, making the journey much more accessible than in previous decades. It is a peer-to-peer essential to ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your arrival date and that you have at least two blank pages. While no longer "visa-free" in the traditional sense, the eTA system is designed to be a faster, "semi-automated" way for tourists to enter the country and begin their East African adventure.

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Life in Kenya is very different from traditional American life, and this trip can be an educational and moving experience for any American. To visit Kenya, though, you need a Visa. Luckily, for you, you can also apply for an eVisa, and electronic version of the Visa. iVisa can help you with this process.

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We advise: Exercise a high degree of caution in Kenya overall due to the high crime levels and the threat of terrorist attack. Higher levels apply in some areas.

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Exercise increased caution in Kenya due to crime, terrorism, civil unrest, and kidnapping. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.

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In case you are visa-exempt, you can travel to Kenya and stay there for a period of up to 90 days.

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Visas are required for U.S. citizens traveling to Tanzania. Foreign nationals may apply for a visa online in advance of travel. Applicants may complete the e-visa application form and make payment online with a credit card or bank transfer at www.immigration.go.tz.

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Is Nairobi safe to walk around? Yes, it is safe, but just like any other city you have to avoid the seedier parts of the town. If in doubt of where to go, you can always ask a resident friend or a guide from the hotel on the parts to avoid.

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Selectively advised vaccines - only for those individuals at highest risk: Cholera. Yellow fever vaccination certificate required for travellers aged 1 year or over arriving from countries with risk of yellow fever transmission.

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Travel Tips for Solo Safari in Kenya There are no risks specific to solo travel in Kenya. Still, single women, in particular, should apply the usual common-sense precautions such as not walking alone at night in cities, particularly Nairobi, and avoiding deserted beaches.

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