Nairobi is generally considered a low-risk area for malaria, primarily due to its high altitude. The city sits at approximately 1,795 meters (5,889 feet) above sea level, and the cooler temperatures at this elevation are less hospitable for the Anopheles mosquitoes that transmit the disease. Most travelers visiting only the central urban areas of Nairobi do not require antimalarial medication. However, the risk is not zero, particularly during the rainy seasons when stagnant water can lead to increased mosquito activity. Furthermore, almost all travelers to Nairobi are using the city as a gateway to lower-altitude safari destinations like the Maasai Mara, Amboseli, or the coastal regions near Mombasa, all of which are high-risk zones where antimalarials are strongly recommended. Therefore, health professionals usually advise a comprehensive malaria prevention plan for anyone visiting Kenya. This includes using DEET-based repellents, wearing long sleeves in the evening, and sleeping under treated nets. For 2026 travel, always consult a travel clinic at least six weeks before departure to get the most current CDC or NHS FitForTravel guidance based on your specific itinerary outside the capital.