Kenya Travel Advisory, Requirements & Safety (Updated 2026)

Kenya Travel Advisory

While the US State Department has issued a travel warning for some time, it only applies to extremely narrow and non-touristy regions, primarily in the far east of the nation. While some areas may be off-limits, most of Kenya is perfectly OK to visit. Actually, the Masai Mara, Samburu, Amboseli, and Laikipia are only a few of Kenya’s amazing wildlife locations that host thousands of American tourists annually.

Richard Branson, founder of Virgin Group and owner of Mahali Mzuri in the Masai Mara, is a prominent figure in the Kenyan tourism industry. Travel advisories, according to Branson, do more harm than good and aid terrorists. First, occurrences take place far from the most popular tourist spots, which is one of his two primary arguments. Instead of navigating a multi-lane road in the Masai Mara, a wildlife drive through a private conservancy is a considerably safer option. Second, a dramatic increase in rural unemployment occurs when tourism revenues are not present. Poverty makes individuals more susceptible to recruitment into groups like al-Shabab, which in turn leads to an increase in crime overall.

Is Terrorism a Problem in Kenya?

The government of Kenya responds to the global terrorist threat in a manner similar to that of other US and UK partners. It is safe to visit Kenya because of the airport security and the visible police presence in public areas like outdoor markets and retail malls.

Along its eastern border with Somalia, the nation’s formidable military is engaged in combat. The fact that no visitors ever set foot in eastern Kenya should not be underestimated. On the other half of the nation, near the western border of Kenya and Tanzania, you will find the renowned game reserves that you will be visiting. Stone cairns serve as the physical boundary between the Serengeti in Tanzania and the Masai Mara in Kenya because of how calm and tranquil this region is. On their yearly migration, millions of wildebeest pass through this area, and from the Mara, you can see all the way into the Serengeti.

Is Nairobi Safe?

A brief period of political change occurs in Kenya every so often, as it does in many democracies across the world. In the midst of this, in Nairobi, you won’t find the country’s breathtaking safari regions. Actually, there are cases where you’ll take off from Nairobi just after touching down, en route to places like the Masai Mara, Amboseli, Samburu, or Laikipia.

The Masai Mara and Nairobi are frequent stops for Kabira Safaris Africa visitors and employees. Airport security is reportedly very high, and some hotels in the nation’s capital have even gone to extreme lengths to make guests feel even more protected while they’re there.

As part of our hassle-free service, Kabira Safaris does not allow our clients to drive or use public transport.

Is Kenya Safe to Visit?

Kenya is clearly booming and welcoming new business as the safari industry continues to expand and new lodges and camps open their doors on a regular basis. Because of the excellent game watching all year round, the welcoming locals, and the ease of logistics, it continues to be one of the most popular safari destinations.

Kenya Health & Safety Travel Tips

Keep your wits about you to prevent any problems, no matter where you’re going. In order to keep yourself and others safe while travelling around Kenya, consider the following:

• Since Kenya is a country with a high malaria risk, you should visit your doctor to get a prescription for malaria medicines before you go. You remove the possibility of being unable to locate your medication at local pharmacies when you take it yourself.
• Carry an ample supply of bug repellant.
• Keep an eye on your possessions when you get to Kenya. Keep all valuables, including cameras, under lock and key at all times.
• Keep your wits about you in crowded areas, especially markets, in tourist hotspots like Mombasa and Nairobi, where pickpocketing is a problem.
• Make sure someone is keeping an eye on your stuff before you go swimming at one of Kenya’s beautiful beaches.
• Put a copy of your passport and any other necessary travel documents in your checked baggage.
• So that you can concentrate on what really matters—enjoying the experience—our Africa Safari Experts will provide you all the information you need, including specific area warnings and step-by-step directions.

Our blog delves further into the topic of African safari safety, offering recommendations for game drives, walking safaris, camp life, and more.

Food Hygiene in Kenya

The cuisine at the best safari hotels and camps is known for its impeccable quality, so you can enjoy your safari without worry. The quality and local specialities will wow you.

Be wary of meat, unpasteurised dairy items, and unpeeled fruits and salads if you’re travelling through urban areas on your food journey. A solid rule of thumb is to stick to well-cooked foods and to exercise your best judgement when it comes to the cleanliness and hygiene of any place you go. If a restaurant or food vendor doesn’t look clean or busy, you should probably stay away.

The ‘we know because we go’ philosophy is alive and well among our Africa Safari Experts, who will go out of their way to make your trip memorable by providing insider tips on where to eat and what to see.

Is Tap Water Safe to Drink in Kenya?

The water supply in Kenya is deemed unfit for human consumption. Because it is both affordable and easily accessible, we recommend that all of our travellers always drink bottled water. Whether you’re in your room, in your safari tent, or on the way to a wildlife drive, you’ll find free bottled water at many safari lodges, camps, and hotels.

Your accommodation may provide you with a refillable water bottle that you can fill up whenever you need it with filtered water. When you’re in a city or town, it’s very important to use bottled water for your toothbrush.

Is Kenya Safe for LGBTQ+ Travellers?

The fact that homosexuality is illegal in Kenya is a sad reality. On the other hand, a lot of LGBTQ+ couples and individuals go to Kenya for an unforgettable vacation. The country’s top safari sites are safe havens, and the safari business as a whole is kind and accepting of the LGBTQ+ population. One piece of advice is to keep public expressions of affection under wraps because of Kenya’s traditional culture.

With a wealth of knowledge and years of successful experience, our Africa Safari Experts have curated remarkable itineraries for the LGBTQ+ community.

Is Kenya Safe for Female Solo Travellers?

Kenya is a great place for female visitors to explore on their own; in fact, most of the country is ideal for solo adventures. The natives are warm and welcoming, and English is the language of choice. If you’re a female travelling alone, it’s advisable to follow the same safety precautions you would take anywhere else: for example, don’t stroll alone in crowded cities at night and stay away from lonely beaches.

Due to Kenya’s reputation as a safari mecca, many women travelling alone have opted to fly into camps, where they can participate in group safaris or shared game drives, or even just do it alone with a guide. Our Africa Safari Experts can customise a legendary female single traveler experience to suit your every want and need, no matter how big or little your budget is.

Check out our Beginner’s Guide to a Kenya Safari if you’re thinking about going on a safari there, or contact one of our Africa Safari Experts to create a personalised plan: