Travel To Kenya: What Americans Need To Know

Americans travelling to Kenya need to be aware of the risks involved. The US State Department has issued a Level 2 advisory for Kenya, urging travellers to exercise increased caution due to crime, terrorism, civil unrest, and kidnapping. While violent crimes such as armed carjacking, mugging, home invasion, and kidnapping can occur anywhere in the country, certain areas, such as the Kenya-Somalia border counties and some coastal areas, are particularly dangerous and should be avoided. In addition, the local police often lack the resources and training to respond effectively to serious criminal incidents.

To enter Kenya, US citizens need an electronic travel authorization (ETA) and a passport valid for at least six months beyond their intended stay. Proof of yellow fever immunisation is also required if arriving from an endemic country. Other recommended vaccinations include typhoid and malaria prophylaxis.

When in Kenya, it is important to be vigilant and follow basic safety precautions, such as avoiding walking alone at night, keeping valuables secure, and staying alert in locations frequented by Westerners.

Travel advisories and warnings

The US Department of State has issued a Level 2 advisory for Kenya, which means that travellers should exercise increased caution due to crime, terrorism, civil unrest, and kidnapping. Some areas, such as the Kenya-Somalia border counties, certain coastal areas, and areas of Turkana County, are assigned a Level 4 advisory, indicating a higher risk of danger.

Violent crimes such as armed carjacking, mugging, home invasion, and kidnapping can occur at any time, and local police may not have the capability to respond effectively to these incidents. It is advised to stay alert in locations frequented by Westerners, not to resist any robbery attempts, and to avoid travelling after dark.

Terrorist attacks have targeted Kenyan and foreign government facilities, tourist locations, transportation hubs, hotels, resorts, markets, and places of worship. These attacks can occur with little or no warning and have included armed assaults, suicide operations, bomb/grenade attacks, and kidnappings.

Demonstrations and strikes related to political and economic conditions occur regularly, particularly near elections, and can lead to violence and police use of deadly force.

There is a high risk of malaria in Kenya, and travellers are advised to take antimalarial medication and use insect repellent to prevent mosquito bites.

Other health risks include traveller's diarrhoea and HIV/AIDS. It is recommended to consult with a healthcare provider about recommended vaccinations and to ensure that you have adequate travel insurance.

When travelling to Kenya, it is important to respect local laws and customs. Kenyan law criminalises same-sex sexual activity, and societal discrimination based on sexual orientation is widespread. It is also important to dress conservatively and avoid wearing flashy jewellery or bragging about money to avoid attracting unwanted attention.

In terms of transportation, it is advised to stick to private rides or Ubers instead of using public transport. Traffic moves on the left side of the road, and roads are often poorly maintained, bumpy, and unpaved. Taxis and boda bodas (two-wheeled motorcycle taxis) often fail to observe basic safety precautions and ignore traffic rules.

It is also important to be cautious when walking, as sidewalks may have holes or be unpaved.

When crossing the street, be aware of vehicles that may be travelling at excessive speeds or driving against the flow of traffic.

Entry and exit requirements

A passport and a Kenyan electronic travel authorization (ETA) are required for entry into Kenya. The passport must be valid for at least six months beyond the intended stay and have at least two blank pages for entry stamps. Proof of yellow fever vaccination may also be required, especially if arriving from an endemic country.

It is recommended to have a return ticket and proof of accommodation (hotel bookings or an invitation letter from a host) when entering the country.

Local laws and customs

It is important to respect local laws and customs when travelling to Kenya. Kenyan law criminalises same-sex sexual activity, and societal discrimination based on sexual orientation is widespread. Additionally, female genital mutilation (FGM) is known to occur in Kenya and is illegal in the United States.

Health

There are several health considerations to keep in mind when travelling to Kenya.

Firstly, malaria is a significant risk, and it is recommended to take antimalarial medication and use insect repellent to prevent mosquito bites.

Other common health issues include traveller's diarrhoea and HIV/AIDS. It is recommended to consult with a healthcare provider about recommended vaccinations and to ensure that you have adequate travel insurance.

Transportation

When it comes to transportation in Kenya, it is generally advised to avoid using public transport and stick to private rides or Ubers. Traffic moves on the left side of the road, which can be disorienting for those not accustomed to it. Roads are often poorly maintained, bumpy, and unpaved, and vehicles may travel at excessive speeds or drive against the flow of traffic.

Cultural considerations

As a majority of the population in Kenya identifies as Christian, it is important to be respectful of religious customs and traditions, especially during religious holidays.

Additionally, as a foreigner, you may stand out regardless of what you wear. However, it is generally advised to dress conservatively and avoid wearing flashy jewellery or displaying signs of wealth to minimise the risk of attracting unwanted attention.

Visa requirements

As of January 2024, Kenya has introduced a new Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) system, which has replaced the eVisa regime. All visitors to Kenya are required to obtain an eTA before entering the country. The eTA is a crucial travel document for US citizens planning to visit Kenya for tourism, business, or transit purposes. The eTA is valid for 90 days from the date of issue, and visitors can stay in Kenya for up to 90 days within this period.

To apply for an eTA, you must have:

• A valid passport, with at least six months' validity beyond your intended stay and a minimum of two blank visa pages.
• A passport-sized photograph: recent, clear, and meeting specified requirements.
• Proof of accommodation: hotel bookings or an invitation letter from your host.
• A return ticket: confirmation of your departure date from Kenya.
• Proof of yellow fever immunisation if arriving from an endemic country.

The eVisa is still valid for entry to Kenya if you have one, but it is recommended that you apply for an eTA instead. The eTA application can be completed online, and approval usually takes around one day. The cost of a Kenyan visa is often over $150, but this may change at any time.

If you are planning to work or volunteer in Kenya, you will need to apply for the appropriate visa type. For work permits, it is recommended that you submit your application at least 6-8 weeks before travelling.

Vaccinations and health precautions

The CDC recommends that travellers to Kenya are up to date with all routine vaccinations, including:

• Chickenpox (Varicella)
• Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis
• Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)

There has been evidence of chikungunya virus transmission in Kenya within the last 5 years, so a chikungunya vaccination may be considered for travellers who are 65 or older, or who have underlying medical conditions, and who may spend at least 2 weeks in areas where mosquitoes are present. It is also recommended for those planning to stay in Kenya for 6 months or more.

Poliovirus has been identified in Kenya in the past year, so adult travellers who received a complete polio vaccination series as children may receive a single lifetime booster dose of inactivated polio vaccine. Those who are unvaccinated or not fully vaccinated should receive a complete polio vaccination series before travel.

Rabies is also present in dogs and some wildlife species in Kenya, so a rabies vaccination may be considered.

The CDC also recommends the following vaccinations:

• Hepatitis A
• Typhoid
• Hepatitis B
• Meningococcal disease (for travellers 2 months or older travelling to areas of Kenya that are part of the meningitis belt during the dry season)

Additionally, Kenya requires a Yellow Fever vaccination certificate for travellers from endemic countries.

Malaria is a risk in some parts of Kenya, so travellers should take prescription medicine to prevent this disease.

Other recommended precautions include:

• Avoiding unsafe food and water, and washing hands to prevent cholera
• Taking steps to prevent bug bites, such as wearing long-sleeved shirts and long pants, using insect repellent, and staying in air-conditioned or screened rooms
• Staying alert to changing weather conditions and wearing appropriate clothing for outdoor activities
• Practising safe boating and only swimming in designated areas to prevent drowning
• Avoiding contact with animals to prevent rabies and other diseases
• Following food and water safety guidelines, such as choosing safe food and drinks, treating water, and avoiding contaminated water
• Reducing exposure to germs by washing hands frequently, avoiding touching the face, and covering the mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing
• Avoiding sharing body fluids to prevent the spread of diseases such as HIV/AIDS
• Knowing how to get medical care while travelling, including carrying a list of local doctors and hospitals, reviewing health insurance coverage, and bringing necessary medications
• Choosing safe transportation, such as official taxis or public transportation, and avoiding riding on motorcycles or motorbikes
• Maintaining personal security by staying alert, researching local laws and customs, monitoring travel advisories, and carrying a copy of your passport and visa

Transportation and safety

Kenya has an extensive network of paved and unpaved roads, with over 160,886 kilometres of roads. The country's railway system links ports and major cities, and connects Kenya with neighbouring Uganda. There are also 15 airports with paved runways.

Road

Road accidents are a major threat to travellers in Kenya. Roads are poorly maintained and often bumpy, potholed, and unpaved. Traffic moves on the left side of the road, which can be disorienting for those not accustomed to it. There are heavy traffic jams, unpredictable local driving habits, and many vehicles are poorly maintained and lack basic safety equipment.

Public Transport

There are around 100,000 matatus (minibuses) in Kenya, which constitute the bulk of the country's public transport system. Matatus tend to be targeted for crimes as they carry multiple passengers. In February 2004, the Ministry of Transport introduced new regulations governing the operation of matatus, including the compulsory fitting of safety belts and speed governors, and a ban on standing. As a result, the number of people killed and injured in accidents has decreased. However, due to lax enforcement, the number of deaths in road accidents has increased in recent years.

Air

Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi is Kenya's largest airport and serves the most destinations. Some international flights also go to Moi International Airport in Mombasa, and Kisumu Airport, which was upgraded to an international airport in 2011.

Safety

The US Department of State has issued a Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution travel advisory for Kenya due to crime, terrorism, civil unrest, and kidnapping. Some areas have increased risk, including the Kenya-Somalia border counties, some coastal areas, areas of Turkana County, and the Nairobi neighbourhoods of Eastleigh and Kibera. Violent crime, such as armed carjacking, mugging, home invasion, and kidnapping, can occur at any time, and local police often lack the capability to respond effectively. Emergency medical and fire services are also limited.

Terrorist attacks have targeted Kenyan and foreign government facilities, tourist locations, transportation hubs, hotels, resorts, markets, shopping malls, and places of worship. Demonstrations and strikes related to political and economic conditions occur regularly and can result in widespread traffic jams and violence.

Crime is a regular occurrence in Kenya, and authorities have limited capacity to deter and investigate such acts. Violent and sometimes fatal criminal attacks, including home invasions, burglaries, armed carjackings, muggings, and kidnappings can occur at any time. Snatch-and-grabs are common, so it is advised to keep valuables out of sight and avoid using or displaying expensive phones in public.

Tips for Staying Safe in Kenya

• Stay alert in locations frequented by Westerners.
• Do not physically resist any robbery attempt.
• Monitor local media and be prepared to adjust your plans.
• Make contingency plans to leave the country in case of an emergency.
• Always carry a copy of your passport and visa (if applicable) and keep the originals in a secure location.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security messages and make it easier to be located in an emergency.
• Avoid travelling after dark, and use a cab or Uber if you do need to go out.
• Stay in well-reviewed, Western hotels or Airbnbs in good neighbourhoods, such as Westlands, Kilimani, or Kilileshwa.
• Keep car windows closed or slightly cracked when in an Uber.
• Avoid using public transport, stick to Uber or private rides.
• Do not keep cash or valuables on you when going out.
• Get a local SIM card and set up an M-PESA account for payments.
• Do not bury your face in your smartphone when in public, keep it in your pocket.
• Do not go out alone at night.
• Stay away from the "downtown" area of Nairobi, called CBD.
• Avoid the Likoni ferry in Mombasa due to safety concerns.
• Do not use the Likoni ferry in Mombasa due to safety concerns.
• Be careful when walking, sidewalks may have many holes or may not be paved at all.
• Always carry bottled water and avoid ice.

Cultural differences

Americans are allowed to travel to Kenya, but they are advised to exercise increased caution due to crime, terrorism, civil unrest, and kidnapping. Some areas are marked as "do not travel" due to these issues, and it is recommended to stay alert in locations frequented by Westerners, avoid travelling after dark, and always carry a copy of your passport and visa.

Food

In Kenya, food is not wasted, and every morsel is accounted for. In the US, however, there is a culture of wasting food. For example, during Thanksgiving, Americans often buy large amounts of food, and leftovers are thrown away instead of being eaten the next day.

Greetings and Socialising

Kenyans place great importance on greetings and socialising. They will greet you animatedly and ask about your well-being, family, and other aspects of your life. Social gatherings and ceremonies can be lengthy, with villagers often upset if a burial ceremony, for instance, ends before sunset. Americans, on the other hand, have less time for greetings and socialising, often limiting interactions to a handshake upon first meeting and a quick "hi" afterwards. Functions or meetings that last longer than 30 minutes are often frowned upon.

Fashion

Americans tend to favour a more casual style, with jeans and t-shirts being common attire. Kenyans, on the other hand, embrace a wider range of colours and styles, with ladies wearing lesos, khangas, African-designed clothes, skirt suits, and men donning ill-fitting suits and poorly tied ties. Kenyans also have a love for hats, especially cowboy hats.

Time

Americans are always in a hurry, moving from one job to another, and often eating and drinking on the go. Kenyans, on the other hand, take life at a more leisurely pace, enjoying their meals and social interactions without rushing.

Payment for Meals

In Kenya, when someone invites you for a meal, they are usually expected to pay. In the US, it is more common for each person to pay for their own meal, unless it is explicitly stated that the host will cover the bill. This can be a source of confusion and cultural misunderstanding between the two countries.

Frequently asked questions