Is it safe to travel to Kenya right now?

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



Yes, Kenya is considered safe for most travelers in March 2026, especially those visiting for safaris or coastal vacations. The vast majority of the country, including the Masai Mara, Amboseli, and Nairobi’s tourist hubs, is stable and welcoming. However, standard 2026 travel advisories (Level 2) remain in place, suggesting "increased caution" due to crime and terrorism. Safety is highly regional; travelers are strictly advised to avoid areas within 60km of the Somalia border and certain parts of the northern frontier. In cities like Nairobi, "big-city" precautions apply: use reputable apps like Uber, avoid walking alone at night, and keep valuables out of sight. The safari industry is highly regulated, with lodges providing 24/7 security and professional guides who ensure guest safety. For 2026, ensure you have an eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization) before arrival and consult a doctor regarding malaria prophylaxis, as Kenya remains a high-risk zone for the disease.

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US State Dept Travel Advisory The US Department of State currently recommends US citizens exercise increased caution in Kenya due to crime, terrorism, civil unrest, and kidnapping.

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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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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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It is very safe to travel to the Maasai Mara. The park is hours away from Kenya's urban regions, where safety is more of a concern, and is properly patrolled by well trained Park Rangers and animal Wardens. The Masai Mara is one of the safest parks in Kenya to visit for a safari, for the reasons listed below.

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Mauritius, a nation in the southwest of the Indian Ocean, just off the southeast shoreline of Africa, is deemed the safest country in Africa. The island has seen a significant rise in its safety ranking, moving up from the 28th to the 23rd safest country worldwide in 2023, boasting a GPI score of 1.546.

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Be especially careful when traveling after dark anywhere in Kenya due to crime. Terrorist attacks have occurred with little or no warning, targeting Kenyan and foreign government facilities, tourist locations, transportation hubs, hotels, resorts, markets/shopping malls, and places of worship.

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Kenya is one of the world's magnificent wildlife destinations! Its parks, reserves and private conservancies are home to some of the highest and most diverse populations of wildlife on the planet. Traveling across vast landscapes bathed in soft morning light, your African dreams unfold before your eyes.

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Kenya Moral Dress Emphasis Accordingly, when visiting the shopping areas, local bazaars and other public areas, make sure you wear knee-length shorts or long pants with polo shirts. Women should refrain from wearing tank tops and short skirts or shorts. Topless bathing is not allowed at all locations.

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All of my office staff use uber and none have had any issues. Uber is the next big thing in Taxi [ cab] services in Nairobi. The app is fantastic and also allows whoever recommends you to earn some royalty points. Very reliable, highly recommended.

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Malaria Precautions There is a very low risk of malaria in Nairobi, the areas immediately around Nairobi, and in the highlands above 2,500m. Malaria tablets aren't recommended if you are only travelling to these areas, but you should take precautions and practise insect bite avoidance to reduce your risk.

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