Kenya Safety Tips: What to Know Before You Go

Is Kenya safe to visit?

Kenya is one of East Africa's most popular destinations, and most trips to Nairobi, Mombasa and the safari parks pass without incident. Like any country, it rewards travelers who stay alert. A little local knowledge goes a long way toward avoiding petty crime and scams.

General safety

• Avoid walking after dark, especially in Nairobi's CBD and quieter streets. Use a taxi or a ride-hailing app at night.
• Keep phones, jewelry and cameras out of sight in crowds and on matatus (shared minibuses).
• Don't carry large amounts of cash. Use ATMs inside banks or malls during the day.
• M-Pesa (mobile money) is widely used and often safer than cash for small payments.
• Carry a photo of your passport rather than the original day to day.

Areas to be careful

• In Nairobi, take extra care in the CBD at night, around the River Road area, and in informal settlements like Kibera unless you're with a trusted guide.
• On the coast, Mombasa, Diani and Malindi are generally relaxed, but avoid isolated beaches after dark.
• Check your government travel advisory before heading to the far northeast (near the Somali border) and parts of the coast north of Lamu.

Common scams

• Fake safari operators taking deposits and disappearing. Book through licensed, reviewed companies and avoid paying large sums in cash up front.
• Friendly strangers who claim to recognize you or offer to be your guide, then demand money.
• Taxi overcharging — agree the fare first or use Uber, Bolt or Little Cab, which show prices in advance.
• Currency and ATM tricks — count your money and shield your PIN.
• "Orphanage" or charity donation requests that pressure you on the spot.

Wildlife and road safety

• On safari, always follow your guide's instructions and never leave the vehicle in the parks.
• Roads can be busy and poorly lit. Avoid driving long distances at night and wear seatbelts.

Emergency numbers

• 999 or 112 — police, fire and ambulance (general emergencies).
• Tourist safety: contact your hotel reception or the Kenya Tourism Federation Safety and Communication Centre.
• Save your embassy's number on arrival.

Health basics

• Drink bottled or filtered water and consider malaria precautions for coastal and lakeside areas.
• Carry any prescription medicines with you, as pharmacies may not stock specific brands.

Stay connected in Kenya

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